The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon has weedy herbal red and black currant notes, medium body, and good spice. It lacks some concentration and intensity, as many of these Reverie wines do, but I like the balance and gracefulness. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. Norman Kiken has been the long-time owner of this well-placed winery and estate on Diamond Mountain. I have had far greater wines from Reverie in the past, and this performance, although competent, certainly wasn’t one of their best. I also tasted both the 2007 and 2008 Petit Verdot, and really don’t think this varietal can stand on its own merit, even if it’s blended with some Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Both wines were mediocre at best.Tel. 800-REVERIE; fax (707) 942-6803

The dark ruby 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon has medium body, but it falls away slightly on the palate and seems very un-2007-like in its restraint and lack of concentration. It is a pretty wine, though, and therein lies its charm. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Norman Kiken has been the long-time owner of this well-placed winery and estate on Diamond Mountain. I have had far greater wines from Reverie in the past, and this performance, although competent, certainly wasn’t one of their best. I also tasted both the 2007 and 2008 Petit Verdot, and really don’t think this varietal can stand on its own merit, even if it’s blended with some Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Both wines were mediocre at best.Tel. 800-REVERIE; fax (707) 942-6803

You’ll want to cellar this one, because it’s tight and hard in tannins, as befits a well-made Diamond Mountain Cabernet. Entirely dry, it has a strong heart of cassis. But the structure is impeccable, and all it needs is time. Best after 2011 and probably well beyond.——S.H.(5/1/2009)—— 92