daily wine picks

Less than $15

Aug. 01, 2012 KAIKEN Malbec Mendoza 2010 (87 points, $12)

Notes of game and spice lead to rich dark cherry and jammy blackberry fruit character that gives way to more spice and smoke notes on the finish. Drink now. 12,000 cases imported. —Nathan Wesley

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$15 to $30

Aug. 01, 2012 BUENA VISTA Merlot Carneros 2009 (89 points, $20)

Elegant and supple, with black raspberry and spice aromas that lead to ripe, layered cherry and toasty caramel flavors. Drink now through 2017. 15,000 cases made. —Tim Fish

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More than $30

Aug. 01, 2012 KOSTA BROWNE Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Gap's Crown Vineyard 2010 (94 points, $78)

Broad-shouldered, very ripe and rich, with great intensity and concentration to the baked berry flavors, mixing blueberry, wild berry, plum and raspberry. Ends with fresh earth, wilted rose and subtle berry flavors. Drink now through 2020. 1,615 cases made. —James Laube

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