daily wine picks

Less than $15

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

Aug. 10, 2000: COLUMBIA CREST Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley (87 points, $8)

This flavorful Washington white is round and generous, delivering notes of pear, herb and vanilla, and finishing with a refreshing touch of citrus. A tasty wine whose value price makes it a good choice when multiple bottles are needed. Drink now. 55,000 c —Harvey Steiman

Aug. 07, 2000: BRANCOTT Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 1999 (88 points, $10)

Bright and lively, brimming with peach, citrus and green peppercorn flavors that linger spicily on the finish, this wine is a well-made and well-priced version of New Zealand's signature white. Drink now. 10,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Aug. 03, 2000: A MANO Primitivo Puglia 1999 (88 points, $10)

This Primitivo (the Italian Zinfandel) from the 'heel' of Italy is a juicy, fruity, drink-me red at a grab-me price, delivering lots of chocolate and cherry character in a medium-bodied frame, with soft tannins and a long, fruity finish. Delicious. Drink —James Suckling

Jul. 31, 2000: BODEGAS Y VIÑEDOS SANTIAGO GRAFFIGNA Syrah Tulum Valley Selección Especial 1998 (85 points, $10)

Though the Graffigna winery was founded in 1869, it only recently began exporting its wines. A bit tight, with good, burly black cherry and plum, this Argentine red is an unusual version of Syrah, but still a solid partner for barbecue at an invite-the-ga —James Molesworth