Wine list

<p>Press Democrat wine writer Peg Melnik scopes out restaurant 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>Ferrari-Carano, 2008 Sonoma County Fume Blanc, $15. </b>A smoky fume blanc with a silky texture. Grassy, with notes of grapefruit, guava and mineral.</p><p><b>Ridge, 2007 East Bench Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, $30. </b>A concentrated zin with great spice. Notes of zesty cherry, wild berry, plum, licorice and white pepper.</p><p><b>Wilson Winery, 2007 Estate Sawyer Vineyard Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, $32.</b> An ultra-ripe zin with notes of black cherry, hint of rhubarb, herbs, caramel and spice.</p><p><b>Bella, 2007 Lily Hill Estate Zinfandel, $38. </b>A snappy zin, juicy and lush. Notes of cherry, raspberry, herbs and spice. Long finish.</p><p><b>L’Ermitage, 2002 Anderson Valley Brut, $45. </b>A lovely sparkler, crisp and complex. Aromas and flavors of brioche, yeast, apple and lemon. Lively mousse. </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>