daily wine picks

Less than $15

Oct. 02, 2000: FETZER Zinfandel California Home Ranch 1997 (85 points, $9)

Fetzer is a winery known for producing value-oriented wines, and they've hit the mark again with this offering. Bright raspberry and blueberry flavors and toasty notes make this Zin a tasty choice. Its low price and drink-now style make it a savvy choice. —James Laube

Sep. 28, 2000: ARESTI Cabernet Sauvignon Curicó Valley Montemar 1999 (85 points, $9)

Here's a solid little Cabernet value from Chile. Sweet and toasty, with easy-drinking juicy plum and currant flavors that pick up some nice grip on the finish. Drink now. 25,000 cases made. —James Molesworth

Sep. 27, 2000: DE MARTINO Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley 1999 (84 points, $7)

From a well-established Chilean winery comes another solid little value. Quite smoky, with a slight roasted bell-pepper note. This medium-weight Cab is fresh enough to enjoy with fall barbecue fare, and its affordability makes it a good choice for social —James Molesworth

Sep. 26, 2000: LAUREL GLEN Reds Rouge Rosso Tinto California 1998 (86 points, $9)

From a California winery known primarily for its Cabernet, comes this appealing, value-oriented blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and other grapes. Tasty and fragrant, with jasmine, orange peel, cinnamon and strawberry notes and a lingering finish. Drink n —James Laube

Sep. 23, 2000: CONCHA Y TORO Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley Casillero del Diablo 1999 (86 points, $10)

Here's a crowd-pleasing Chilean Cab at a consumer-friendly price, from one of the region's leading wineries. Lively currant, plum and smoke aromas rush forth and are backed up by a sweet, round, jammy-fruit profile. Toast and vanilla notes finish it off. —James Molesworth