Weekly wine picks for 9-18-05 double dose

Pavilion 2004 Napa Valley Chardonnay $9.99

This attractive Chardonnay opens with handsome aromas of tropical fruit, royal jelly and herbs. In the mouth it is very well-behaved offering copious quantities of guava and stone fruit flavors. A silky-textured wine with medium-body, finishing with bright acids and a facade of sweet vanilla oak.

Drink with roast garlic chicken

Miguel Torres 2003 Maule Valley Reverva Syrah $8.99 (Chile)

A deep red purple color leads the way to enticing aromas of black currant, cocoa, and spices. A rich jammy mouthful of berries, brown spices and oak spread like velvet across the palate. The finish is long and enduring.

Drink with BBQ baby back ribs

Domaine La Peu de la Moriette 2004 Vouvray

Nice medium-weight version, light gold color with aromas of honey, and peach and a kiss of oak. Moderately sweet and deceptively structured with a seductive nature, fig fruit flavors dominate. A round mouth feel and fresh finish with enough mineral quality to keep it authentic.

Drink with Tuna sushi

2 Brothers 2003 Colchagua Valley Big Tattoo Red $8.99 (Chile)

A great blend of 50/50 Cabernet and Syrah. A deep red color with loads of berries and cherries fill the nose. On the palate a plump, round mouth full of plums and currants with sweet vanilla and spicy oak carry on through the rich, lingering finish.

Try this with a lamb ragout and pasta