daily wine picks

Less than $15

Nov. 08, 1999: BODEGAS MARTINEZ BUJANDA Rioja Conde de Valdemar Crianza 1996 (88 points, $10)

Rich, yet firm and well integrated, this red from Spain offers concentrated plummy, woody and spicy flavors that fill the mouth and linger on the finish; a lot of wine for so moderate a price. A great match with roasted meats. Drink now through 2003. 50,0

Nov. 04, 1999: SONOMA CREEK Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County (87 points, $12)

Looking for a value in California Cabernet? This firm-textured wine has anise, blackberry and coffee notes framed by toasty oak, with supple tannins that give good structure, and the flavors resonate on the finish. Drink now through 2004. 12,000 cases mad

Nov. 02, 1999: PENFOLDS Sémillon-Chardonnay South Eastern Australia Koonunga Hill 1997 (85 points, $8)

Silky and appealing for its tobacco-scented pear and citrus flavors, and finishing with juicy acidity and a round texture, this white blend from Australia is quite a lovely wine for so modest a price. Drink now through 2002. 31,945 cases imported.

Nov. 01, 1999: CHÂTEAU LA ROQUE Mourvèdre Coteaux du Languedoc Pic St.-Loup Cuvée Vieilles Vignes 1997 (90 points, $11)

From France's emerging Languedoc region comes this oustanding Mourvèdre. A truly savage red wine, with plenty of sinew. Its enticing meaty aroma leads to tightly wrapped and intense flavors, including notes of dried plum, cherry, dark hummus, mushroom, p

Oct. 30, 1999: BONNY DOON Vin Gris de Cigare California 1998 (87 points, $9)

An offbeat offering at a try-me price, this blush-style Mourvèdre blend is dry, with lots of forward strawberry, tea and apple-skin flavors that finish crisp and refreshing. Drink now. 6,700 cases made.