daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Jan. 25, 2001: CHÂTEAU POUJEAUX Moulis (87 points, $21)

Here's a moderately priced Bordeaux value, from a château with ample case production. Pretty plum and berry character on the nose. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Delicious. Best after 2005. 20,830 cases made. —James Suckling

Jan. 24, 2001: LAWSON'S DRY HILLS Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough (87 points, $15)

Here's a well-priced and amply made New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Fresh and zingy, a lively mouthful of anise- and herb-scented apple and citrus flavors. Drink now. 12,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Jan. 20, 2001: TE MATA Sauvignon Blanc Hawkes Bay Cape Crest 1999 (91 points, $18)

Smooth, elegant and flavorful, this white is a refined style of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc with pretty vanilla-scented lime, pear, cashew and floral flavors. Everything lingers enticingly on the juicy finish. Drink now. 1,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Dec. 19, 2000: RANCHO ZABACO Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley 1997 (90 points, $16)

What better way to jazz up the holiday dinner table than with a distinctly American wine — Zinfandel. This version, from one of the Gallo of Sonoma family of labels, has serious depth, weaving together ripe plum, raisin and espresso flavors that are acc —James Laube

Dec. 15, 2000: CLINE Syrah Los Carneros 1998 (91 points, $20)

The Cline family founded this winery in 1982, and they've specialized in Rhône varietals since then. A distinctive California version of Syrah, this offers a Côte-Rôtie-like spiciness and personality. Shows excellent concentration, with earthy flavors —James Laube