Wine list

<p>Press Democrat wine writer 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):</p><p><b>Trentadue, 2005 Old Patch Red, Sonoma County Red Blend, $14. </b>A perfect red for a barbecue. Spicy, with great up front fruit flavors. Notes of cherry, plum, herbs and black pepper. A zin-based blend with the remainder 20 percent petite sirah, 5.5 carignane and 4.5 syrah.</p><p><b>Kim Crawford, 2008 Marlborough, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, $19. </b>A dry sauvignon blanc with crisp acidity. Grassy, with notes of gooseberry, passion fruit and a hint of jalapeno.</p><p><b>J Cuvee 20 NV Brut, $20. </b>A yeasty sparkler that's crisp and refreshing. Aromas and flavors of tart green apple, herbs and lemon zest. Tasty.</p><p><b>Keller Estate, 2006 La Cruz Vineyard Pinot Noir, $42. </b>An elegant pinot with great structure. Aromas and flavors of bright cherry, anise and mineral. Tangy.</p><p><b>Paraduxx, 2006 Cinnamon Teal Red Blend, $48. </b>A briary blend with good structure. Notes of black cherry, anise and pepper. A blend weighted to zin, with the remainder 27 percent cabernet, 7 merlot and 2 cab franc.</p><p><em>Want to share a current wine on your favorite restaurant's list? E-mail peg.melnik@ pressdemocrat.com or check out her Tasting Room blog at pressdemocrat.com</em></p>