daily wine picks

Less than $15

Aug. 25, 1999: COVEY RUN Riesling Washington (85 points, $6)

Fruity and generous, juicy, with green apple, melon and mineral flavors that finish soft and gentle. Drink now. 21,000 cases made.

Aug. 24, 1999: VIU MANENT Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley Reserve 1997 (89 points, $12)

From Chile comes this intense, elegant red which shows an alluring combination of toasty oak and ripe fruit, with expressive and harmonious flavors of plums, licorice, chocolate and mint. It's firm, balanced and long. Drink now through 2005. 15,000 cases

Aug. 21, 1999: JINDALEE Shiraz Murray Darling Region 1998 (85 points, $9)

This Australian Shiraz is crisp and bright, with an appealing core of light-bodied berry and pepper flavors. Drink now through 2002. Well-priced and an ample quantity -- 10,000 cases -- made.

Aug. 13, 1999: BARRAL & ROCA Malbec Mendoza 1996 (85 points, $8)

Malbec, used for blending in Bordeaux and as the main grape in France's Cahors appellation, has found a home in Argentina. This Malbec is a big, generous red wine, with ample fruit flavors, a broad texture and full body. It's ripe and hearty, tannic but w

Aug. 12, 1999: BARNARD GRIFFIN Fumé Blanc Columbia Valley 2003 (87 points, $9)

Juicy and refreshing, this Sauvignon Blanc from Washington state is a lively mouthful of apple, lime, black pepper and a touch of herb, all lingering nicely on the bright finish. Drink now. 4,950 cases made.