The line between tart gooseberries and that strong ammonia smell is a thin one. This Sauvignon Blanc steps just over the edge. The price is fine, and the wine is dry and crisp in citrus fruit flavors, but it is a little too green.——S.H.(4/1/2011)—— 84

A sleeper of the vintage as well as an excellent bargain is Souverain’s 2008 Sauvignon Blanc. Fresh, honeyed grapefruit and other assorted citrus along with apricot and subtle floral characteristics make an appearance in this medium-bodied, richly fruity, dry, crisp Sauvignon. Enjoy it over the next year. Tel. (707) 433-8281; Fax (707) 433-5174

Not ripe. Although there are sweet flavors of pineapple and pear juice, the green mint, hay and gooseberry aromas cross the line into feline spray. ——S.H.(3/1/2010)—— 82

A terrific bargain, the 2007 Sauvignon Blanc is a Loire Valley-styled white offering flamboyant notes of roasted herbs, Thai lemon grass, honeyed grapefruit, and a hint of peaches. Crisp and medium-bodied with delicious fruit, this sensational dry white can be enjoyed over the next 1-2 years. 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