The finest of the group is the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Winemaker’s Reserve. Aromas and flavors of espresso roast, sweet toasty oak, black currants, licorice, and spice box are present in this medium-bodied Cabernet. With soft tannins as well as a velvety, savory mouthfeel, it can be drunk now and over the next decade. One of the value producers in northern California, Souverain consistently fashions attractive red and white wines. Souverain’s Cabernet Sauvignon program features fruit from the Alexander Valley, which can produce wines with rustic tannins and earth. I do not believe the quality of the 2005s and 2006s is as high as it was in 2004, 2003, and 2002, nor as high as what they should accomplish in 2007. Nevertheless, the 2005s and 2006s are well-made wines.Tel. (707) 433-8281; Fax (707) 433-5174

Shows a return to the form of Souverain’s glory days. Beautiful and complex, with luscious flavors of blackberries, currants and dried herbs, wrapped into soft, smooth tannins. Really classy. Best now and through 2012.——S.H.(7/1/2009)—— 92