daily wine picks

Less than $15

Aug. 24, 2000: COVEY RUN Riesling Washington (84 points, $7)

Ripe and generous, a jazzy mouthful of peach, apple and resiny pine aromas and flavors that linger on the round finish. Drink now. 28,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Aug. 21, 2000: GIESEN Riesling Canterbury 1999 (90 points, $11)

Bright, lively and distinctive, with mineral and lime notes adding intriguing accents to the peach and apple flavors on a dry frame. Has style, depth and a finish long enough to invite cellaring. From New Zealand. Drink now through 2009. 4,500 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Aug. 18, 2000: PAUL THOMAS Cabernet Sauvignon Washington 1998 (85 points, $9)

Bright and focused, with a nice creamy edge to its raspberry and currant flavors and with a smooth finish, this is an appealing Cabernet for an appealing price. Drink now. 7,300 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Aug. 16, 2000: COVEY RUN Chardonnay Columbia Valley 1997 (85 points, $9)

Looking for a good value in Chardonnay? This Washington offering shows plenty of charm. It's fresh and vibrant, with citrus, pear and spice flavors on a soft frame. Drink now through 2002. 15,100 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Aug. 14, 2000: VALENTIN BIANCHI Malbec San Rafael Elsa 1997 (86 points, $7)

A jammy red, with juicy currant and dark plum flavors and firm, chewy tannins. Picks up nice sanguine, mineral and bittersweet chocolate notes on the finish. From Argentina, it's like a very good Cahors, at a very good price. Tasted twice, with consistent —James Molesworth