daily wine picks

More than $30

Nov. 21, 2009: LES VINS DE VIENNE Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes Heluicum 2007 (91 points, $40)

Juicy and focused, with a bright edge to the blackberry and raspberry notes. The finish gets added definition thanks to fresh acidity that lets iron and incense notes play out. Syrah. Drink now through 2011. 1,250 cases made. —James Molesworth

Nov. 20, 2009: MICHEL & STEPHANE OGIER Syrah Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes La Rosine 2007 (90 points, $37)

Fresh and focused, with a lovely iron note holding the violet, black cherry and tobacco notes together. The long, sanguine-tinged finish has a perfumy hint. Drink now through 2010. 2,500 cases made. —James Molesworth

Nov. 19, 2009: DOMAINE LA FOURMONE Vacqueyras Ceps d'Or 2005 (90 points, $35)

Maturing, with mesquite, brown bread and dark earth notes moving in on the core of currant, plum and raisin fruit. The long finish still has a slightly chewy edge, but shows flitters of spice and incense. Drink now through 2010. 1,100 cases made. —James Molesworth

Nov. 18, 2009: MONTIRIUS Gigondas Terre des Aînés 2006 (90 points, $32)

Juicy in texture, but restrained with its display of red currant, plum and blackberry fruit. Sweet earth and coffee notes linger on the fig bread-tinged spine. Supple and lengthy. Drink now through 2010. 4,165 cases made. —James Molesworth

Nov. 17, 2009: KUMEU RIVER Chardonnay Kumeu Estate 2007 (92 points, $35)

Bright, tangy and elegant, this vibrant wine has grapefruit and pineapple flavors at the fore, picking up apple and spice as the finish lingers effortlessly. Drink now through 2017. 7,000 cases imported. —Harvey Steiman