daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Jan. 29, 2002: NAVARRO Pinot Noir Anderson Valley Méthode à l'Ancienne 1999 (88 points, $19)

This California Pinot Noir offers wonderful balance and intensity, serving up a medley of berry flavor, with well-focused cherry, plum, blackberry and raspberry, accented by a minty spiciness. Drink now through 2006. 3,712 cases made. —James Laube

Jan. 26, 2002: RIDGE Geyserville Sonoma County 1999 (88 points, $30)

Paul Draper continues to churn out brawny Zinfandels built for the cellar, and the '99 Geyserville is no exception. A ripe, rich, earthy style, with waxy wild berry, black cherry, blackberry, herb and minty notes. Turns a bit rustic on the finish, but the —James Laube

Jan. 24, 2002: VOYAGER ESTATE Chardonnay Margaret River 1999 (1999 points, $20)

This Aussie Chardonnay gives a lot of bang for the buck. Bright and vivid, with crisp acidity and juicy nectarine and pineapple flavors shaded with hints of mineral and spice, all echoing beautifully on an open-textured finish. A dramatic wine that retain —Harvey Steiman

Jan. 23, 2002: HARDYS Shiraz South Australia Tintara 1999 (89 points, $18)

Here's another winning Australian Shiraz. Dense and chewy, with zingy acidity to support the ripe blackberry, cherry and white pepper flavors, which linger effortlessly along with firm tannins on the finish. Best from 2003 through 2009. 25,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Jan. 22, 2002: TERREDORA Greco di Tufo Loggia della Serra 2000 (87 points, $19)

Here's a tasty white from Italy's Campania region. Pretty and subtle aromas of peaches and cream. Medium-bodied, clean and creamy-textured, with pleasant fruit and a fresh finish. Drink now. 12,000 cases made. —James Suckling