daily wine picks

Less than $15

Dec. 24, 2012 CHÉREAU-CARRÉ Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine 2011 (86 points, $11)

Light, with modest floral, Meyer lemon and chamomile notes and an easy finish. Drink now. 10,000 cases made. —James Molesworth

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$15 to $30

Dec. 24, 2012 CASA LAPOSTOLLE Merlot Colchagua Valley Cuvée Alexandre Apalta Vineyard 2009 (90 points, $25)

Ripe and pulpy, with rich plum and macerated black cherry notes woven with light tannins and hints of tobacco, mocha and smoke on the lingering finish. Drink now through 2016. 2,000 cases imported. —Nathan Wesley

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More than $30

Dec. 24, 2012 AYOUB Pinot Noir Dundee Hills ??? Vineyards 2010 (95 points, $45)

Vibrant, elegant and complex, with pinpoint focus to the currant, plum and mineral flavors. A nice layer of allspice and white chocolate adds smoothness to the long, vivid and gloriously transparent finish. Drink now through 2020. 175 cases made. —Harvey Steiman

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