daily wine picks

Less than $15

Jun. 28, 2000: OXFORD LANDING Cabernet-Shiraz South Australia (85 points, $8)

Can't beat the price-score combo offered by this bright and flavorful red -- a charming mouthful of currant, plum and distinctly minty aromas and flavors that linger effortlessly on the finish. Drink now through 2007. 30,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Jun. 27, 2000: BANROCK STATION Shiraz South Eastern Australia 1999 (86 points, $7)

Here's a great deal on Australia's favorite red variety. This very good version is nicely spicy, with ripe, round raspberry notes and an herbal twist on the finish. Drink now. 40,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Jun. 23, 2000: FARALLON Merlot North Coast 1997 (85 points, $10)

Merlot you crave? This one's not only delicious, it's reasonably priced. The chocolate, dill and black cherry flavors are ripe-tasting, and the intensity and soft tannins combine nicely with vanilla notes on the finish. Drink now through 2004. 22,750 case —James Laube

Jun. 20, 2000: GALLO OF SONOMA Chardonnay Sonoma County (86 points, $11)

This young California white provides good drinking at a budget-minding price, offering vibrant lemon and pineapple flavors of intense focus, enhanced with smoky oak notes. Drink now. 100,000 cases made. —James Laube

Jun. 19, 2000: COLUMBIA CREST Chardonnay Columbia Valley Estate Series 1998 (90 points, $12)

A complex, creamy Washington white, rich, long and generous, dripping with pear, honey, nutmeg and clove, the flavors lingering enticingly. Delicious already; drink now through 2003. 30,000 cases made. —James Laube