Recession Busters

This is Dave McIntyre's monthly recommendation of wines that cost $10 or less, with the occasional splurge: this month, he goes as high as $11. All of these are worthy of a Great Value tag.

REDS

Pontecilla Tempranillo Old Vines 2007
**
Calatayud, Spain, $10

A tremendous value, with rich, earthy tobacco and plum flavors and impressive depth and balance for the price. On the second day it develops a leathery character, like an old book in Grandpop's library that smells of cigars he smoked half a century ago.

Kysela: available in the District at Capitol Hill Wine and Spirits, various Marvelous Market locations; available in Maryland at the Wine Source in Baltimore; available in Virginia at Rick's Wine & Gourmet and Unwined in Alexandria.

Domaine La Bastide Syrah 2007
* 1/2
Hauterive, France, $10

A pleasant Rhone-style syrah with smoky black-fruit flavors; perfect for the grill.

Peter Weygandt/Potomac Selections: available in the District at Ace Beverage, on the list at Perry's. Available in Maryland at the Wine Source in Baltimore; on the list at "b" Bistro in Baltimore. Available in Virginia at Grape Juice Wine Shop in Arlington, Vienna Vintner; on the list at Tap & Vine in Arlington.

Las Perdices Malbec 2007
* 1/2
Mendoza, Argentina, $11

Another example of why Argentina's malbec leads most lists of bargain values: blueberry, thyme and sage, with a silky texture. Simple, but simply delicious.

Elite Wines: available in the District at Chevy Chase Wine & Spirits, Rodman's; on the list at Bistrot Lepic. Available in Virginia at Arrowine in Arlington, Leesburg Vintner; on the list at Bastille in Alexandria, Ray's the Steaks in Arlington.

Domaine des Terrisses Rosé 2008
* 1/2
Gaillac, France, $10

A fun wine for those interested in obscure grape varieties, as this blends braucol and duras with the more familiar syrah. Strawberry and melon flavors and spot-on acidity highlight this tasty rosé.