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>Dry Creek Vineyard, 2008 Wilson Ranch, Clarksburg, Dry Chenin Blanc, $12. </b>A lush wine with tropical flavors. High-toned fruit. Balanced. Light on its feet.</p><p><b>Novy, 2006 Sonoma County Red Blend, $19. </b>Smoky, with aromas and flavors of boysenberry, blackberry, herbs and spice. Jammy.</p><p><b>Nigl, 2008 Kremser Freiheit Gruner Veltliner, Austria, $20. </b>A bright, crisp wine. Aromas and flavors of peach, lime peel, lemon zest and mineral. Hint of grapefruit. Refreshing finish.</p><p><b>JC Cellars, 2007 Smoke and Mirrors Red Blend, California, $25. </b>A full-bodied red that’s briary, smoky, spicy and has a tannic edge. Balanced. Long finish.</p><p><b>Graton Ridge Cellars, Bacigalupi Vineyard, Russian River Valley Zinfandel, $30. </b>Stylish without being over the top. Great aromas and flavors of raspberry, blackberry, herbs and spice. Rich fruit.</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>