daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Feb. 10, 2001: ST. SUPÉRY Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1997 (91 points, $22)

Rich, complex and concentrated, with ripe plum, black cherry, blackberry and mineral flavors. Finishes with a firm core of tannins. A tremendous value in ready-to-drink or ageable Cabernet. Best from 2002 through 2009. 29,317 cases made. —James Laube

Feb. 07, 2001: BODEGAS MONTECILLO Rioja Gran Reserva 1994 (91 points, $23)

Lovely. This youthful red is both elegant and concentrated, with spice, licorice and gamey notes accenting a core of ripe cherry. It's supple, yet firm enough for food. Drink now through 2010. Solid quality for the price, and it should be easy to find som —Thomas Matthews

Feb. 02, 2001: MONTES Merlot Curicó Valley Montes Alpha 1996 (86 points, $22)

Good job for a '98, with juicy plum and currant flavors, and nice vanilla and cedar notes peeking out on the finish. Drink now. 25,000 cases made. —James Molesworth

Jan. 31, 2001: CHÂTEAU FAUGÈRES St.-Emilion (91 points, $20)

Now run by Corinne Guisez after the passing of her husband Péby in 1997, this St.-Emilion grand cru has vineyards made up of 70 percent Merlot, 25 percent Cabernet Franc and 5 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. Their '98 shows fantastic aromas of berry, —James Suckling

Jan. 30, 2001: CHÂTEAU CHASSE-SPLEEN Moulis (88 points, $20)

Along with Poujeaux, Chasse-Spleen is another very solid wine from the lesser-known Haut-Médoc appellation of Moulis. Very pretty indeed, with lovely cherry, berry and floral aromas. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a berry and cherry aftertaste. Del —James Suckling