daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Jan. 17, 2013: MAS DE LA DAME Alpilles White La Stèle 2011 (88 points, $24)

Offers up an aroma of ginger, revealing luscious flavors of ripe apricot, melon and apple pastry. Saline notes emerge as well, with smoke and dried mango elements lingering on the rich finish alongside hints of white chocolate. Vermentino and Roussanne. Drink now through 2017. 25,000 cases made. —Kim Marcus

Jan. 16, 2013: VIÑA CASABLANCA Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca Valley Nimbus Single Vineyard 2011 (87 points, $15)

This ripe white leads off with a hint of flint to the fresh lime, grapefruit and melon rind notes, following through on the minerally aftertaste. Drink now. 6,000 cases made. —Nathan Wesley

Jan. 15, 2013: DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS Bierzo Pétalos 2010 (91 points, $22)

This plush red delivers black cherry, licorice, mineral and smoke flavors. Harmonious and focused, supported by well-integrated tannins and firm acidity. Not a showy wine, but has complexity and depth. Drink now through 2018. 50,000 cases made. —Thomas Matthews

Jan. 14, 2013: GRUET Blanc de Blancs American Sauvage NV (87 points, $18)

Offers appealing crisp apple, spice and anise flavors. Drink now. 3,500 cases made. —Tim Fish

Jan. 12, 2013: VIÑA CASABLANCA Carmenère Rapel Valley Cefiro Reserva 2010 (86 points, $15)

This supple, ripe red boasts tasty dark cherry and cassis notes woven with savory herb, cedar and spice hints, turning a touch dry in the finish. Drink now. 8,000 cases made. —Nathan Wesley