daily wine picks

Less than $15

Feb. 10, 2000: JACOB'S CREEK Chardonnay South Eastern Australia 1999 (85 points, $8)

Here—s an easy-drinking Aussie Chard at an everyday price. Light, bright and refreshing for its citrusy apple and peach flavors. Drink now. 122,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Feb. 08, 2000: STONELEIGH Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 1999 (87 points, $11)

This New Zealand Suavignon Blanc has an unusual range of flavors, centering around apricot, orange and lime, with a distinctly herbal character sneaking in on the finish. Drink now. 50,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Feb. 07, 2000: VON HÖVEL Riesling QbA Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Balduin von Hövel 1998 (89 points, $12)

Serious ripeness here for just a QbA-level Riesling, exuding pineapple, honey and apricot aromas and flavors. Everything is balanced, and there's just enough acidity to keep it fresh. Drink now through 2003. 1,500 cases made. —Bruce Sanderson

Feb. 05, 2000: DRY CREEK Fumé Blanc Sonoma County 1998 (87 points, $12)

This California Sauvignon Blanc is a tasty choice for so few dollars, with lime, melon, hay and jalapeño notes that are crisp, clean and refreshing. Drink now through 2003. 31,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Feb. 03, 2000: J. & F. LURTON Minervois Château La Plaine St.-Pierre 1997 (85 points, $10)

From Bordeaux-based negociant J. & F. Lurton comes this offering from France's Languedoc region. Focused and plummy, with plenty of minerally notes and dried herb flavors on the finish. A clean, vibrant red. Drink now. 2,500 cases made. —Kim Marcus