daily wine picks

Less than $15

Feb. 07, 2012: HERDADE MONTE DA CAL Alentejo 2009 (86 points, $10)

There's good snap to the licorice and red currant flavors, which linger with tar and spice on the crisp finish. Alfrocheiro, Aragonez and Alicante Bouschet. Drink now through 2014. 25,000 cases made. —Kim Marcus

$15 to $30

Feb. 07, 2012: JOSEPH DROUHIN Chorey-lès-Beaune 2009 (87 points, $25)

A rich, sappy red, full of cherry and earth flavors and a hint of smoke. Straightforward and juicy, with a rustic finish. Drink now through 2014. 2,000 cases imported. —Harvey Steiman

More than $30

Feb. 07, 2012: CRISTOM Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills Marjorie Vineyard 2008 (92 points, $65)

Dense and chewy, with blackberry and tar flavors, hinting at floral notes as the finish persists with intensity. Best from 2013 through 2018. 440 cases made. —Harvey Steiman