daily wine picks

More than $30

Dec. 06, 2000: ALDO CONTERNO Barolo Cicala 1996 (97 points, $110)

A masterpiece. This Barolo shows class and gorgeously ripe fruit -- layers and layers of the stuff, yet all very subtly presented. It's full-bodied, with ultrasilky tannins that go on and on. Best after 2004. 800 cases made. —James Suckling

Dec. 05, 2000: POL ROGER Brut Champagne Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 1990 (96 points, $155)

Known for using a generally higher amount of Pinot Noir than Chardonnay, as opposed to most tête de cuvées, the '90 Winston Churchill is power and intensity in a glass. Bold and full of bread dough and apple character, with a marmalade note, marr —Bruce Sanderson

Dec. 02, 2000: CHÂTEAU MONT-REDON Châteauneuf-du-Pape (90 points, $35)

Supple and harmonious, this medium-bodied red from the Rhône delivers good ripe fruit, showing Châteauneuf complexity. It's muscular and firm, and while the tannins are rustic, the wine is so flavorful. Drink now through 2004. Should be easy to find som —Per-Henrik Mansson

Dec. 01, 2000: DOMAINE DU VIEUX TÉLÉGRAPHE Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Crau (93 points, $37)

Châteauneuf had a tremendous vintage in '98, and its wines offer great value in the face of rising Bordeaux and California prices. The '98 Vieux Télé is reserved aromatically, but the wonderful balance is evident as this young Rhône red reveals its mi —Per-Henrik Mansson

Nov. 28, 2000: MARCARINI Barolo Brunate (95 points, $46)

Already tight as a drum, but glorious aromas of flowers, berries and cherries gradually come forth. Full-bodied and very tannic, yet with loads of fruit and fresh acidity. Don't touch this monster for awhile. Best after 2006. 2,380 cases made. —James Suckling