I love a good red, but when i wanna get faded off some Berry White i go for the Pinot Grigio for 2.50€. I don't spend much for white, the Red gotta be decent at least.
Merlot is my shit, although my uncle hits up France every year and brings home a gang of Bordeaux. I think one of the best tasting reds i ever had was from Argentina. Some kind of Malbec. I never had Malbec before so the taste was something new and refreshing.
Also, I recommend this:
Very good chilean vineyard!
2007er go for like 8€ and you get a very good Merlot for that price.
Montepulciano is also an indication of goodness!!