Wine List

Press Democrat wine columnist Peg Melnik scopes out wine lists around the North Bay, looking for good value and the occasional splurge. This week's picks (prices are retail; restaurant markup varies):

JC Cellars, 2006 California Cuvee Syrah ($25) -- A smoky syrah. Complex with notes of black cherry, toast, vanilla and spice. Balanced.

Enkidu, 2006 Tina Marie Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($40) -- Notes of cranberry, raspberry, red currant and spice. Long finish.

Silver, 2006 Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay ($42) -- A bright, balanced chardonnay with a silky texture. Complex, with aromas and flavors of apple, melon, mineral and spice. Long finish.

William Selyem, 2006 Heintz Vineyard, Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($50) -- Rich and lush, with notes of apple, melon, caramel and vanilla. Toasty.

Londer Vineyards, 2006 Paraboll, Anderson Valley Pinot Noir ($54) -- A rich, earthy pinot noir with good complexity. Notes of black currant, wild berry, forest floor and spice.

Want to share a current wine on your favorite eatery's list or tips about corkage? E-mail peg.melnik@pressdemocrat.com.

-- PEG MELNIK