daily wine picks

More than $30

Jun. 23, 2001: ROTLLAN TORRA Priorat Tirant 1997 (95 points, $75)

Powerful and intense, this Spanish red is as ripe and rich as a young vintage Port, bursting with flavors of black cherries and blueberries, chocolate and coffee, supported by muscular yet round tannins. An impressive achievement in an age of blockbuster —Thomas Matthews

Jun. 20, 2001: HANZELL Chardonnay Sonoma Valley (90 points, $50)

Here's a success from California's tricky '98 vintage. Sharply focused on ripe and exotic fruit, this Sonoma white shows layers of juicy fig, nectarine, citrus, orange blossom, hazelnut and anise. Has a long, detailed finish, and a track record for improv —James Laube

Jun. 19, 2001: PATZ & HALL Chardonnay Russian River Valley Dutton Ranch 1999 (91 points, $36)

Brilliant, with lively acidity keeping the citrus, pear and nectarine flavors bright and juicy through the finish, which picks up a touch of nutmeg-scented oak. Drink now through 2005. 2,400 cases made. —James Laube

Jun. 16, 2001: KEN WRIGHT Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Abbey Ridge Vineyard 1999 (93 points, $40)

From one of the region's best wineries comes this outstanding Oregon Pinot Noir. Lithe and juicy, with a beautifully focused band of raspberry, rose petal and chocolate notes swirling though the lively finish. Strikes a harmonious balance and lets the fla —Harvey Steiman

Jun. 15, 2001: SHAFER Chardonnay Napa Valley Carneros Red Shoulder Ranch (92 points, $37)

Sleek, rich and elegant, this Chardonnay offers a pretty array of fig, pear, anise, nectarine, toasty oak and hazelnut nuances, then finishes with a gush of flavors. Drink now through 2005. 7,000 cases made. —James Laube