To me, “bargain” is about more than price — it means value. It means good quality wine at a surprisingly low price. To that end, here are a few that qualify — even a sparkling — at just $10!

RED
Andeluna Cellars 2007 Merlot Tupungato ($10). Nice value on this Argentina Merlot — savory smoke, earth and spices accent supple red berry fruit. Surprisingly substantial. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Arido 2007 Malbec Mendoza ($10). Seriously a bargain, with appealing savory and mineral notes balancing the smooth red berry, toasty vanilla and baking spice aromas and flavors. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-02-27)

WHITE
Kamiak 2008 White Blend Columbia Valley Windust ($10). This one could easily become my house white this summer! Flirts with off-dry, but stays crisp and refreshing, with tropical citrus fruit and touches of ripe apple and peach, with a rounded, lightly spicy finish. Ready to drink now. A blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Pomelo 2008 Sauvignon Blanc California ($10). This one was a nice surprise, offering fragrant, crisp apple, grapefruit, peach and mineral notes that stay bright and juicy through the finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-11-29)

SPARKLING
Pongracz NV Brut Western Cape ($10). From Fresh & Easy markets comes this South African sparkler — an excellent value, with crisp berry and apple flavors touched with yeast and honey notes. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.