daily wine picks

More than $30

Aug. 02, 2003: M. CHAPOUTIER Ermitage White L'Ermite 2001 (95 points, $278)

The Rhône has enjoyed success in recent vintage, as this collector's item from Chapoutier demonstrates. Amazingly rich, this ultrathick, ultracreamy white oozes with refined character of wet earth, mineral, citrus and dried fruit (plus a slight burnt rub —Per-Henrik Mansson

Jul. 31, 2003: CHÂTEAU PAPE CLÉMENT Pessac-Léognan White 2001 (90 points, $85)

While '00 was a terrific vintage for red Bordeaux, the '01 vintage seems to favor dry whites and Sauternes. This '01 white offers complex aromas of apple tart, cream and apricots that follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with a solid core of fruit an —James Suckling

Jul. 29, 2003: CHÂTEAU MONTROSE St.-Estèphe 2000 (95 points, $87)

Incredible blackberry, licorice and vanilla character, with lovely and complex aromas. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long finish. Goes on and on and on. Best since the amazing 1996 Montrose. Best after 2010. 15,000 cases made. Collectible —James Suckling

Jul. 24, 2003: CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Margaux 2000 (100 points, $423)

Muscular yet classy. Breathtaking aromas of black licorice, violets, berry and cherry, with light hints of spices and minerals; it's all there in the nose. Full-bodied, with an ultrafine tannin structure, and a finish that persists for minutes. This may t —James Suckling

Jul. 21, 2003: AU BON CLIMAT Chardonnay Santa Maria Valley XX Anniversary Passant des Nuits-Blanches au Bouge 2000 (92 points, $35)

Opens with floral and sandalwood aromatics, then shows off a beam of smoky lemon, citrus, spicy pear, pineapple and anise flavors, finishing in a long, rich, elegant aftertaste. Firm acidity should give this wine a wider drinking window. Drink now through —James Laube