daily wine picks

Less than $15

Feb. 09, 1999: ORLANDO Chardonnay South Eastern Australia Jacob\'s Creek 1998 (85 points, $9)

This Australian Chardonnay is fresh and lively, with an apricotlike accent to its pear and apple character. Drink now. Should be very easy to find some of the 125,000 cases made.

Feb. 08, 1999: WYNDHAM ESTATE Tawny Port South Eastern Australia George Wyndham Old Tawny NV (88 points, $9)

You don't have to buy expensive vintage Port from Portugal to get quality. This Australian tawny Port (which gets aged in wood as opposed to the bottle) is sweet and silky, with pretty coffee and toffee scents around a black cherry core, hinting at tar on

Feb. 05, 1999: VIGNERONS ARDECHOIS Merlot Vin de Pays des Coteaux de l\'Ardeche 1997 (84 points, $7)

From the southeast of France comes this inexpensive Merlot. Lively and interesting, with nice olive, currant and bell pepper flavors. Has a nice focus; turns a bit chewy on the finish. Drink now. 15,000 cases made.

Feb. 04, 1999: REDBANK Shiraz Victoria Long Paddock 1997 (88 points, $9)

Here's a well-priced Aussie Shiraz that should be easy to find. Supple and generous, this tightly packed mouthful of black cherry and spice flavors lingers on the velvety finish. Drink now through 2001. 30,000 cases made.

Feb. 03, 1999: VINA LA ROSA Cabernet Sauvignon Rapel La Palma 1997 (84 points, $8)

A lively mix of black cherry and herbal flavors gives this soft Chilean Cabernet a distinctive personality. The tannins are soft, and a pleasant minty note lingers on the finish. Drink now through 2002. 10,000 cases made.