daily wine picks

Less than $15

Sep. 20, 2012 CHÂTEAU MARIS Minervois Old School 2011 (88 points, $12)

Rose petal and crushed red fruit flavors grace this still youthful-tasting red, with herbal and slate shadings on the finish. Drink now. 2,000 cases made. —Kim Marcus

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$15 to $30

Sep. 20, 2012 CHÂTEAU DE MERCUÈS Malbec Cahors White Label 2009 (90 points, $24)

Powerful and dense, with meaty overtones to the dark plum flavors. The inky finish features some smoky notes, backed up by plenty of graphite accents and tannins. Drink now through 2017. 7,500 cases made. —Kim Marcus

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More than $30

Sep. 20, 2012 FLOWERS Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Camp Meeting Ridge 2010 (92 points, $60)

Fresh and snappy, with vivid lemon-citrus-infused green apple and pear. Lively acidity gives this a mouthwatering vitality. Subtle oak adds aroma and texture. Drink now through 2020. 578 cases made. —James Laube

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