daily wine picks

Less than $15

Apr. 11, 2000: GEYSER PEAK Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma County (86 points, $9)

This refreshing, racy and complex California Sauvignon Blanc will wow you with its grapefruit, jalapeño and lime notes and crisp and lively finish. Good price, too. Drink now through 2004. 43,000 cases made. —James Laube

Apr. 08, 2000: DIAMOND BAY Pinotage Western Cape 1998 (86 points, $10)

A very good quality South African Pinotage (a grape which is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault), this is dark and smelling of cherry candy and vanilla, with plenty of cherry and plum to support the oak. Fresh and very forward in style, it's a nice q —Thomas Matthews

Apr. 06, 2000: DOMAINE DES BLAGUEURS Syrah Vin de Pays d\'Oc Sirrah 1998 (86 points, $10)

From the south of France comes this delicious Syrah at a great price, with lovely flavors of cherry, mineral and pepper. Well concentrated and attractive in color, with plenty of meaty, chocolaty flavors too. From Bonny Doon's Randall Grahm. Drink now thr —Kim Marcus

Apr. 03, 2000: CHATEAU ST. JEAN Fumé Blanc Sonoma County (87 points, $9)

Here's a good value in Fumé Blanc, offering nice balance, with ripe fig, herb, citrus and melon flavors, turning elegant and lively. Drink now through 2003. 20,500 cases made. —James Laube

Mar. 31, 2000: STEVENOT Chardonnay Sierra Foothills (84 points, $10)

Elegant, with vibrant pear and tangerine notes and an earthy accent on the finish. Drink now through 2003. Solid for the price, and plenty to go around. 52,000 cases made. —James Laube