daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Feb. 06, 1999: RIDGE Geyserville Sonoma County 1996 (93 points, $25)

This Zinfandel-based blend from California is always one of Ridge's best wines. The '96 Geyserville is supple and harmonious, with pretty toasty oak flavors leading to a core of spicy wild berry, cherry jam, plum and raspberry. Sharply focused on the long

Feb. 02, 1999: CHAIN OF PONDS Chardonnay Adelaide Hills 1997 (94 points, $20)

From a winery just finding its way to our shores comes this outstanding Chardonnay that's worth the effort to find. This glorious white wine, graceful and harmonious, layers vibrant apple, pear, tropical fruit, spice and vanilla flavors and hints at raisi

Jan. 26, 1999: BELVEDERE Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Creek Valley 1995 (89 points, $17)

This California Cab starts off with bright, ripe cherry and plum flavors. Silky-smooth in texture, with a gentle roundness, finishing moderately with a hint of anise. Still tastes quite young, and should evolve nicely. Drink now through 2003. 4,900 cases

Jan. 21, 1999: CHATEAU CANTEMERLE Haut-Médoc (91 points, $23)

A superb buy in the '96 Bordeaux vintage and the best Cantemerle in years. Beautiful and rich, with a wonderful core of fruit. Pretty plum and berry aromas, with hints of tobacco and chocolate. Full-bodied, with loads of chocolate and berry character. Lon

Jan. 18, 1999: CHATEAU CARONNE-STE.-GEMME Haut-Medoc (90 points, $22)

One of the big surprises of the '96 Bordeaux vintage. Hard not to drink now, it's so balanced and delicious. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chocolate, berry, tobacco aftertaste. Best buy of the vintage? Best after 2001.