Even better is the slightly bigger, richer, classic 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Double J Vineyard. Some toasty oak is present, but the wine has plenty of black currants, graphite, subtle smoke and earth. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. (Not yet released)I only tasted one white from Souverain, which has a well-deserved reputation for offering considerable quality at favorable prices.Tel. (707) 433-8281; Fax (707) 433-5174

Another good effort is the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Double J Vineyard, which comes from the Chalk Hill area. It displays more blue and black fruits along with notions of forest floor, damp earth, and spicy oak. Medium to full-bodied and plush, it should drink nicely for 10-15 years. (Not yet released)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