daily wine picks

More than $30

Jan. 28, 2013: BODEGAS LAN Rioja Culmen Reserva 2007 (91 points, $70)

Blackberry, cassis and cola flavors mingle over tight tannins and balsamic acidity in this expressive red. Shows power without being overbearing or sweet, offering a firm backbone and a fresh finish. Drink now through 2015. 1,500 cases made. —Thomas Matthews

Jan. 26, 2013: CLIFF LEDE Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District Cinnamon Rhapsody 2009 (91 points, $95)

Firm, this shows off distinctive cinnamon spice and nutmeg scents, with touches of black licorice, dark berry and blackberry, ending with gripping tannins that highlight the spiciness. Drink now through 2023. 1,170 cases made. —James Laube

Jan. 25, 2013: NEWTON Chardonnay Napa County Unfiltered 2009 (91 points, $60)

A rich, creamy style, with ripe fig, honeysuckle, honeydew melon and apricot flavors. Full-blown and persistent. Drink now through 2017. 10,000 cases made. —James Laube

Jan. 23, 2013: PRODUTTORI DEL BARBARESCO Barbaresco 2007 (92 points, $38)

This is elegant and charming, featuring cherry, rose and tobacco flavors, with just a hint of earthy, underbrush. The tannins are beginning to soften and integrate. Approachable now, but will improve with time. Drink now through 2024. 6,000 cases imported. —Bruce Sanderson

Jan. 22, 2013: JACQUART Brut Champagne Mosaïque NV (92 points, $37)

Rich, featuring an undertow of smoke and roasted nut mixing with flavors of black currant, lemon meringue pie and ground ginger, with a hint of honeycomb. Refined in texture and framed by well-knit acidity, this shows a lasting, mineral-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 125,000 cases made. —Alison Napjus