daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Mar. 31, 1999: LANDMARK Chardonnay Sonoma-Santa Barbara-Monterey Counties Overlook (92 points, $22)

Here's an outstanding Chardonnay release from the very promising 1997 vintage. Ripe, smooth, rich and creamy, with layers of pear, vanilla, anise and fig flavors that are deep, complex and concentrated. Finishes with a long, delicious aftertaste. 15,000 c

Mar. 17, 1999: GRANT BURGE Shiraz Barossa Filsell 1996 (91 points, $15)

Ripe and spicy, here's a generous and focused Aussie Shiraz dripping with blackberry, black cherry, anise and leather flavors that keep pumping on the long finish. Fine tannins can use cellaring. Best after 2001. 5,000 cases made.

Mar. 15, 1999: TURKEY FLAT Shiraz Barossa Valley (93 points, $27)

Since our first review of Turkey Flat (back in our Sept. 15, 1997, issue), we've been impressed. The '96 Shiraz is a sturdy wine, with distinctive character that lasts and lasts on the focused finish, weaving layers of earth and spice flavor through the b

Mar. 05, 1999: CHATEAU CARBONNIEUX Pessac-Leognan White 1996 (89 points, $27)

A pretty and delicious young white Bordeaux, with fresh apple, lemon and vanilla aromas that follow through to the very creamy palate. Medium-bodied, with medium acidity and a fresh finish. Drink now. 18,000 cases made.

Mar. 02, 1999: DAVID BRUCE Petite Syrah Central Coast (87 points, $16)

This California Petite Sirah is dark, ripe and plush, with herb, black cherry, pepper and meaty notes, plus a dash of vegetable, finishing with supple tannins. Best from 2000 through 2004. 7,000 cases made.