daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Apr. 01, 2000: GUENOC Langtry Meritage White Guenoc Valley 1998 (87 points, $23)

Toasty oak, herb, ripe lemon, pineapple and melon flavors are well-balanced and generous. Full-bodied, with lively acidity and a long finish. Made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Drink now through 2003. 36,000 cases made. —James Laube

Mar. 30, 2000: CAYMUS Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley (86 points, $18)

On the oaky side, with a creamy texture and plenty of toast and coconut notes. Full-bodied, with hints of pear and herb flavors poking through. Drink now through 2003. 18,000 cases made. —James Laube

Mar. 29, 2000: TORII MOR Pinot Noir Oregon (88 points, $22)

Smooth, silky and moderately generous with its blackberry and citrus flavors, finishing with a crisp note that balances the flavors and textures. Drink now through 2003. 1,575 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

Mar. 28, 2000: ZACA MESA Chardonnay Santa Barbara County Zaca Vineyards (85 points, $15)

Clean and refreshing, with crisp pear, melon, apple, grapefruit and spicy notes. Drink now through 2003. 20,000 cases made. —James Laube

Mar. 27, 2000: STEELE Zinfandel Mendocino Pacini Vineyard 1997 (88 points, $18)

Jed Steele scores again with this Zin. Firm and restrained, with ripe berry, plum, spice and peppery notes, it's focused and lean on the finish, with tight tannins. Drink now through 2006. 2,000 cases made. —James Laube