daily wine picks

Less than $15

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

Sep. 21, 2000: HERON Syrah California 1998 (86 points, $11)

Here's a bargain for fans of Rhône-style wines. This California Syrah serves up plum, cedar, spice and earth notes that come together nicely and linger on the finish. Drink now. 5,000 cases made. —James Laube

Sep. 16, 2000: HEGGIES Heggies Chardonnay Eden Valley (89 points, $8)

This is a silky-smooth and pretty Australian Chardonnay, with lovely almond- and hazelnut-scented pear, peach and vanilla flavors that extend into an elegant finish. Goes for refinement -- and achieves it, at an eyebrow-raisingly low price. Drink now thro —Harvey Steiman

Sep. 13, 2000: BRANCOTT Chardonnay Gisborne 1999 (90 points, $10)

This New Zealand Chardonnay is simply an outstanding value. Smooth and round, layering its generous pear and nectarine flavors with spicy, floral overtones. The fruit flavors remain lively and balanced throughout, echo beautifully on the rich finish. Drin —Harvey Steiman