daily wine picks

Less than $15

May. 19, 2000: PLANETA Sicilia Red La Segreta 1998 (86 points, $10)

A pretty, fresh and well-made red from southern Italy at a no-quibble price, this is medium-bodied, with lots of strawberry and berry character, light tannins and a fresh finish. Drink now. 18,000 cases made. —James Suckling

May. 18, 2000: BOTROMAGNO Gravina 1998 (86 points, $9)

Riesling fans (and their wallets) will like this Italian white. It's extremely aromatic, with lemon, lime and floral aromas and a hint of aniseed. Medium-bodied, with good acidity and a long, lively, fruity finish. Delicious. Drink now. 16,000 cases made. —James Suckling

May. 17, 2000: CALATRASI Primitivo Puglia Terrale 1998 (87 points, $7)

A solid Italian red with plum and berry character and a hint of meatiness. It's full-bodied, with medium tannins and a fruity finish. Very good wine at a painless price. Drink now through 2002. 155,000 cases made. —James Suckling

May. 12, 2000: APOLLONIO Copertino 1997 (86 points, $9)

From Italy—s Puglia region comes this fresh red (made from the Negromaro grape) at a refreshing price, delivering pleasant, silky tannins, plum and cherry flavors and a clean finish. Drink now. 10,000 cases made. —James Suckling

May. 10, 2000: MACI Salice Salentino Tenute La Mea 1997 (87 points, $10)

There's lots of ripe fruit here in this red from Italy—s Puglia region, balanced by berry, cherry and licorice character. It's a full-bodied wine (made from the Negromaro grape), with velvety tannins and a long finish. This, Maci's simple red, is the wi —James Suckling