Wine and Spirits : Tasting Notes

Most of the following Meridian wines are not yet released, but will be within a few months. Most are in good supply. Prices are full suggested retail; most stores will offer them at 10% to 20% less.

* 1993 Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Barbara County ($9)--Delicate aroma of herbs and grapefruit; a light, breezy, easy-to-sip taste with creamy mid-palate from 50% barrel fermentation; bright fruit and crisp finish. To be released Feb. 1.

* 1993 Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County ($10)--Citrus, fig and apple-pineapple aromas, a broad slightly creamy texture and a soft, complete aftertaste. To be released March 1.

* 1993 Chardonnay, Edna Valley ($14)--Smoky, roasted aroma with delicate hint of onion skin, peachy fruit and a creamy, rich finish. A wine for lovers of Montrachet. To be released April 1.

* 1992 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County ($14)--Hints of cherry jam, plum and raspberry with just a trace of oak; delicate Volnay-like fruit and a velvety finish. Lighter in style than past vintages, but wonderful drinking. Released Dec. 1.

* 1992 Syrah, Paso Robles ($14)--Plum jam, chocolate, cassis and a trace of pepper in a fat, rounded wine. Not very complex yet, but just wait. A powerhouse with perfect balance. To be released March 1.

* 1992 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ($13)--Generous fruit of black cherry and cassis with roasted nut notes, a trace of chocolate in the taste, and a complex, delicately herbal finish. The fifth great Cabernet from Meridian. To be released March 1.