daily wine picks

$15 to $30

Jan. 01, 2013: GODELIA Mencía Bierzo 2009 (88 points, $17)

This red is smooth and generous, with black cherry, plum, anise and tobacco flavors. Features light tannins and gentle acidity, but stays light-footed and fresh through the finish. Drink now through 2015. 12,500 cases made. —Thomas Matthews

Dec. 31, 2012: J Cuvée 20 Russian River Valley NV (89 points, $28)

Sleek and crisp, featuring floral pear and spicy yeast aromas, with vibrant flavors of lemon, quince and fresh ginger. Drink now. 31,500 cases made. —Tim Fish

Dec. 29, 2012: DAMILANO Nebbiolo d'Alba Marghe 2010 (87 points, $19)

Beefy and compact, this red shows cherry, balsamic and earth flavors backed by firm tannins. A little dry on the finish. Best from 2014 through 2018. 4,147 cases imported. —Bruce Sanderson

Dec. 28, 2012: WHITEHALL LANE Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 2011 (88 points, $18)

Offers appealingly pure fruit flavors, with ripe white peach and nectarine notes allied to a fleshy texture, bright acidity and a refreshing finish. Drink now. 6,824 cases made. —MaryAnn Worobiec

Dec. 27, 2012: LOS MAQUIS Carmenère Colchagua Valley 2010 (87 points, $19)

A solid, medium- to full-bodied red, offering a grippy mix of plum skin, macerated blackberry and firm grilled herb notes that lead to a flinty finish. Drink now. 4,000 cases made. —Nathan Wesley