daily wine picks

Less than $15

Apr. 15, 1999: VIÑA SANTA CAROLINA Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley Reserva 1997 (86 points, $8)

This lively red offers expressive flavors of ripe fruit and toasty oak, with black cherry, plum, chocolate and vanilla flavors. Soft, almost jammy in texture, it has just enough tannin and acidity to keep it balanced. Drink now through 2002. 25,000 cases

Apr. 14, 1999: EDGEFIELD Black Rabbit Red Oregon 1997 (85 points, $11)

A stylish wine, supple in texture, with earthy, gamy notes mingling with the black cherry flavors. Made from an unusual blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Syrah. Drink now through 2000. 5,700 cases made.

Apr. 12, 1999: BRIDGEVIEW Pinot Gris Oregon Cuvee Speciale 1997 (87 points, $10)

Fresh and bright, this cuvee offers a jazzy mouthful of melon and nectarine flavors that persist prettily on the finish. Drink now. 5,500 cases made.

Apr. 10, 1999: HESS SELECT Chardonnay California (84 points, $10)

Here's an inexpensive California Chardonnay that should also be easy to find. Soft, with creamy citrus and spice flavors finishing simple. Drink now.

Apr. 09, 1999: KING ESTATE Pinot Gris Oregon Reserve (90 points, $13)

This Pinot Gris is smooth, round and generous, with lovely melon, spicy pear and caramel flavors that linger beautifully. Drink now. 45,000 cases made.