looking for new years red

[nauset]

We are having a New Year's Eve part for 30 and are looking for an inexpensive red (under $10) to serve with the beef tenderloin. I would like a merlot and a cab sauvignon. Any suggestions for drinkable now wines available on the east coast. Thanks.

[Jason]

When it comes to value Merlot and Cab, Chile is hard to beat. If you have not had any recently, try them again, as the learning curve is sharp for that area.
One of my favorites is Concha y Toro "Trio" Cab. Almost has a minty aspect to it, very earthy and much better wine then its $10 would indicate.

[Jerry D Mead]

Echart 1996 "Rio de Plata" Malbec (another member of the Bordeaux family of red wine grapes) from Argentina is an amazing wine for about $7. It should have national availbility.

Canyon Road 1997 "California" Merlot is a winner at about $8 frontline.

Also, if you can fimnd Stonehedge in your market, the wines are line-priced in the $10 range and both the Merlot (my favorite) and the Cabernet are excellent.

[Thomas]

Curmudgeon makes a good suggestion. Also, Trapiche Malbec, Argentina: from $8 to $9.