daily wine picks

Less than $15

Feb. 29, 2000: VILLA DEL BORGO Pinot Grigio Grave del Friuli 1998 (86 points, $8)

Here—s a solid Pinot Grigio at a nice price, coming from northeast Italy. Lots of apple, cream and almond add character to this lovely, medium-bodied white, along with a caressing texture and a fruity finish. Quite a nice ensemble for such a low price. —James Suckling

Feb. 26, 2000: BORGO MAGREDO Pinot Grigio Grave del Friuli 1998 (87 points, $10)

There—s more to Italy than just Chianti and Barolo. From the Northeast region come many solid white wines, including this well-priced Pinot Grigio. Beautiful freshness of mineral, honey and apple. Medium-bodied, with lively acidity and a long mineral fi —James Suckling

Feb. 24, 2000: FARALLON Chardonnay Central Coast 1998 (88 points, $10)

Here's a very good California Chardonnay at a great price. A mouthful of vanilla and lush tropical flavors that really persist on the finish, turning lemony. Drink now through 2004. 22,000 cases made. —James Laube

Feb. 18, 2000: QUADY Orange Muscat California Electra 1998 (88 points, $9)

In the mood for something different? This California dessert wine is spritzy, with clean, refreshing orange, nectarine and tangerine flavors, turning elegant and fragrant. Drink now through 2004. 6,508 cases made. —James Laube

Feb. 17, 2000: CLINE Côtes d\'Oakley Vin Blanc California 1998 (89 points, $9)

This California white is made from an uncommon blend of Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, Sémillon and others. Lots of fun, rich and gooey, with fresh fennel, papaya, tangerine and melon flavors that are refreshing, not cloying. Drink now through 2002. 4,00 —James Laube