daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Jan. 10, 2005: VON HÖVEL Riesling Kabinett Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Oberemmeler Hütte 2003 (90 points, $20)

Is this 2003? Almost racy, here's an opulent Riesling with a fine, vibrant structure and intense flavors of lime, peach and mineral. Perhaps not the length of a great year like 2001, but very well done and expressive. Drink now through 2012. From Germany. —Bruce Sanderson

Jan. 08, 2005: WILLI HAAG Riesling Spätlese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Brauneberger Juffer (AP 11) 2003 (90 points, $25)

Rose, slate and red berry aromas and flavors mark this exotic Riesling, whose structure is moderately firm. It picks up a tactile sensation on the finish, yet lingers pleasantly, with a licorice aftertaste. Drink now through 2012. From Germany. —Bruce Sanderson

Jan. 07, 2005: CULLER Syrah Napa Valley 2002 (90 points, $30)

Dark-hued, with intense, concentrated beefy white pepper, wild berry, blackberry and cedary-tobacco-herbal scents that are tightly wound and well-focused, ending with a chewy core of tannins. Best from 2006 through 2012. 221 cases made. From California. —James Laube

Jan. 06, 2005: CASCINA GARITINA Barbera d'Asti Superiore Neuvsent’ 900 2001 (90 points, $27)

Pretty strawberry and blackberry jam aromas with hints of toasted oak. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a light vanilla and chocolate aftertaste with fruit. This is a new winery for me and an excellent Barbera. Drink now. 2,000 cases made. From Piedmon —James Suckling

Jan. 05, 2005: BOLLIG-LEHNERT Riesling Spätlese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Piesporter Goldtröpfchen 2003 (90 points, $18)

Very ripe and exotic, evoking cantaloupe, mango and licorice notes on a lush frame. It offers very good acidity, with a lovely finish. Well done. Drink now through 2012. 525 cases made. From Germany. —James Molesworth