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>Boroli, 2006 Madonna Di Como Dolcetto D’ Alba Red Blend, $16. </b>A great everyday sipper. Notes of tart cherry, plum, herbs and a hint of caramel. Smooth texture.</p><p><b>Charles Krug, 2006 Napa Valley Merlot, $20. </b>Soft and easy to drink. Seamless, soft tannins. Aromas and flavors of blackberry, black currant, herbs, toast and spice. Long finish.</p><p><b>BR Cohn, 2008 Grieve Family Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, $22. </b>A plush, yet crisp sauvignon blanc. Grassy and creamy with notes of grapefruit, herbs, lemon and lime. Tart finish.</p><p><b>Wilson, 2007 Carl’s Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, $32. </b>A showy, ultra-ripe zin with complex flavors. Notes of blackberry, boysenberry, white pepper and caramel. Big and jammy.</p><p><b>Eldorado Gold, 2006 Sonoma County Dessert Wine, $42. </b>A lovely after-dinner dessert drink. Intense aromas and flavors of dried apricot, honey and vanilla. Rich and full-bodied. A tasty blend of sauvignon blanc and semillon grapes.</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>