301142 Thu Nov 17 15:21:29 -0800 2005 2 27 General Chowhounding Topics 0 1677936 I'd like recommendations for both merlot and chardonnay, ~ $10-$20 per bottle, that are readily available. I'm in the Los Angeles area. Thanks! Thu Nov 17 15:21:29 -0800 2005 0 sally from LA 1 1677940 Finding "good" merlot and chards in that range is not the easiest thing to do, but if you are willing to buy something that isn't from CA it can be done. Chards: Wolf Blass Chardonnay Adelaide Hills Gold Label 2003 Evans & Tate Chardonnay Margaret River 2003 Argyle Chardonnay Willamette Valley 2002 Casa Lapostolle Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Cuvée Alexandre (2001 thru 2003) Chateau Souverain Chardonnay Sonoma County 2002 Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay Columbia Valley Indian Wells 2002 Merlot: Casa Lapostolle Merlot Colchagua Valley Cuvée Alexandre 2003 Concha y Toro Merlot Peumo Marqués de Casa Concha 2002 or 2003 Chateau Ste. Michelle Merlot Columbia Valley 2002 Veramonte Primus Casablanca Valley 2002 Familia Rutini Merlot Tupungato Trumpeter 2002 or 2003 Concha y Toro Merlot Rapel Valley Xplorador 2002 Hogue Merlot Columbia Valley 2003 Thu Nov 17 15:43:11 -0800 2005 1677936 0 dinwiddie 2 1677965 That's been my experience as well. There are plenty of cabernets and sparkling wines under $20 that I'll happily drink. But to get a pinot noir, merlot, or chardonnay that's even slightly above palatable takes more money. Thu Nov 17 19:44:47 -0800 2005 1677940 0 nooodles