daily wine picks

Less than $15

Aug. 10, 1999: COVEY RUN Fumé Blanc Washington (87 points, $7)

Here's a tasty and inexpensive Washington Sauvignon Blanc. Bright and fruity, with apple and passion fruit flavors that linger on the juicy finish. Drink now. 7,000 cases made.

Aug. 05, 1999: CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE Semillon Columbia Valley 1997 (86 points, $8)

From Washington state comes this Semillon, providing an intriguing alternative to more popular varietals. Fresh and tightly packed, a lean wine with a sharp beam of spicy grapefruit and tobacco flavors that linger on the light finish. Drink now through 20

Jul. 28, 1999: HYATT Cabernet-Merlot Yakima Valley 1997 (87 points, $10)

A nice, compact red blend, with pretty raspberry, currant and spice notes on a modest scale; flavors linger nicely on the smooth finish. Drink now through 2001. 3,000 cases made.

Jul. 27, 1999: COLUMBIA CREST Chardonnay Columbia Valley Estate Series 1997 (91 points, $11)

From a winery synonymous for well-priced offerings comes this Washington state Chardonnay. Smooth and generous, artfully balanced to show plenty of pear, spice and coconut flavors that meld pleasantly with a hint of beeswax on the long, rich finish. Drink

Jul. 26, 1999: COLUMBIA CREST Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley (88 points, $11)

Firm, chewy, even a little rough around the edges, but ripe currant and blackberry flavors shine through and linger on the generous finish. Best from 2000 through 2006. 122,000 cases made.