Wine List

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):

Cline, 2012 Sonoma Coast Marsanne, Roussanne, 14.5 percent alcohol, $16. A dry Rhone white with tropical fruit flavors and great minerality. Great acid. Crisp finish. A smart pick.

Robert Mondavi Winery, 2012 Napa Valley Chardonnay, 13.5 percent, $19. A tasty chardonnay with a lush texture. Notes of pear, peach and cr?e brulee. Manages to counter richness with good acidity. Long finish. Lovely.

Cass, 2012 Paso Robles Mourvedre, 14.5 percent, $36. A tangy Rhone red with aromas and flavors of red cherry, cranberry, herbs and caramel. Bright acidity. Pretty.

Dashe Cellars, 2012 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, 14.5 percent, $26. An earthy zin that's meaty with notes of black cherry and cracked black pepper. Has some great spice notes and it's no wonder, with 8 percent petite sirah in the mix.

Silver Oak, 2009 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 13.9 percent, $110. A complex cab with a range of flavors — blackberry, cassis, mocha and violet. Firm tannins. Nice length. Spendy but worth the splurge if you have the disposable income.

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.