daily wine picks

More than $30

Apr. 07, 2001: KING ESTATE Pinot Noir Oregon Reserve 1994 (91 points, $35)

The polished style of this supple Pinot emphasizes its pretty black cherry and violet-petal aromas and flavors, which linger effortlessly on the round finish. Has a nice tinge of pepper as well. Drink now. 2,500 cases made.

Apr. 06, 2001: STAG'S LEAP WINE CELLARS Cask 23 Napa Valley (95 points, $150)

From a winery that has been one of California's heavy hitters for some time, the Stag's Leap '97 Cask 23 is a classic. Delivers marvelous richness, intensity and focus, with layers of spicy currant, coffee, anise, sage, cedar, mocha and mineral, and conti —James Laube

Mar. 27, 2001: CAIN Cain Five Napa Valley (91 points, $80)

Founded in 1980, Cain has developed a reputation for hearty Cabernets. This blend of classic Bordeaux varietals is rich and earthy, with a leathery, minerally streak running through a plush core of black cherry, currant, sage. Drink now through 2010. Tast —James Laube

Mar. 22, 2001: NOËL VERSET Cornas 1998 (92 points, $43)

Here's another Northern Rhône winner, from one of Cornas' best producers. A bit odd because it's very raisiny, like an old-fashioned Zinfandel. But there is a lot of concentrated, sweet-tasting wine in this silky gem. Full-bodied, it displays layers of c —Per-Henrik Mansson

Mar. 21, 2001: E. GUIGAL Côte-Rôtie La Mouline (92 points, $150)

Always a late release, Guigal's "La La" wines are usually worth the wait. The '96 La Mouline is a warm, sweet-tasting, ripe Syrah. Yet this full-bodied Northern Rhône wine has a firm, muscular structure; it offers plum, black cherry, licorice, cassis, mo —Per-Henrik Mansson