daily wine picks

Less than $15

May. 26, 1999: ROSEMOUNT Shiraz South Eastern Australia (89 points, $11)

Count on Rosemount for a winning combination of quality, value and availability. This Shiraz is polished and silky in style, featuring sweet blackberry and anise flavors, with a slight bite of pepper on the light finish. Not as big and rich as previous vi

May. 25, 1999: PEPPERWOOD GROVE Zinfandel California 1997 (85 points, $7)

This easy-drinking Zinfandel is ripe and fruity, with mineral, blackberry and black cherry flavors perched on a supple frame, finishing with mild tannins. Its lightweight profile makes it a nice red for the warm-weather season, and you can't beat the pric

May. 24, 1999: GALLO OF SONOMA Chardonnay Russian River Valley 1997 (89 points, $12)

This is a really impressive California Chardonnay at this price. Elegant, smooth and silky, not overbearing, it serves up pretty hazelnut, vanilla, pear and lemon flavors, with a long, refreshing finish complete with mineral overtones. Drink now through 2

May. 22, 1999: R.H. PHILLIPS Chardonnay Dunnigan Hills Toasted Head 1997 (87 points, $12)

This California Chardonnay is ripe, with a supple band of pineapple, toasted oak, citrus and pear flavors. Finishes soft but focused and refreshing. Drink now. Should be easy to find some of the 25,000 cases made.

May. 21, 1999: KENWOOD Zinfandel Lodi Old Vine 1996 (85 points, $10)

Rich and ripe-tasting, offering chunky plum and black cherry flavors and picking up cedar and tar notes that add dimension on the finish, this California Zinfandel is an impressive package at a reasonable price. Ready now. 10,000 cases made.