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):
RouteStock Cellars, 2010 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, 13.3 percent alcohol, $19. A lively pinot noir with bright flavors of raspberry, cherry and spice. Good acidity. Balanced.
Delinger, 2009 Guadagni Brothers Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, 15.5 percent, $30. An elegant, structured zin with great focus. Great core of fruit. Good acidity. Nice length.
Tablas Creek, 2009 Esprit De Beaucastel Blanc, Paso Robles White Blend, 13.5 percent, $32. A white blend with rich flavors and a silky texture. Notes of apricot, nectarine, honey and spice. Tasty.
Sbragia, 2009 La Promessa, Dry Creek Valley Sonoma County Zinfandel, 15.5 percent, $32. A zin with a great concentration of fruit. Layered flavors of blackberry, herbs and spice. Zesty finish.
Thomas Fogarty, 2007 Gist Ranch, Santa Cruz Mountains Merlot, 14.1 percent, $48. A merlot with layered flavors of black cherry, chocolate, herbs and spice. Chewy tannins. Lingering finish.
Clos Pegase, 2008 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 14.9 percent, $48. A rich, complex cab with notes of blackberry, plum, anise and vanilla. Firm tannins.
B. Kosage Wines, 2008 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, 14.5 percent, $50. An earthy pinot with bright aromas and flavors of cherry, currant, herbs and spice. Has depth. Balanced.
Inman Family, 2007 Olivet Range Vineyard, Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, 13.5 percent, $56. A crisp pinot with good acidity and tangy flavors. Notes of cherry, cranberry, a hint of plum and spice. Nice length.
Kistler, 2009 Les Noisetiers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, 14.1 percent, $75. A lush chardonnay with complex flavors. Notes of apple, pear, toast and honey. Great acidity. Lingering finish.
Silver Oak, 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 13.9 percent, $100. A complex cab with layered flavors of blackberry, cassis, chocolate and coffee. Lingering finish.
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.