daily wine picks

Less than $15

Dec. 04, 2012 MILBRANDT Riesling Columbia Valley Traditions 2011 (90 points, $13)

Fresh, light and vibrant, with juicy, tangy pineapple and pear fruit, picking up floral notes as the off-dry finish lingers. Drink now through 2017. 7,000 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

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$15 to $30

Dec. 04, 2012 WHITEHALL LANE Merlot Napa Valley 2009 (91 points, $28)

Rich and plush, but nicely structured, with black cherry and toasty vanilla aromas and soft red currant, cedar and spice notes. A touch of herb comes in with the ripe tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2017. 7,507 cases made. —Tim Fish

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More than $30

Dec. 04, 2012 FIORENZO NADA Barbaresco Manzola 2008 (92 points, $40)

This well-integrated red combines cherry, raspberry and floral flavors with licorice and tar hints and a firm, dense structure. The long finish is still a bit tight, but the sweet fruit prevails. Best from 2014 through 2025. 10,000 cases made. —Bruce Sanderson

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