Wine pairing with Korean-style stew

[Scoop]

I'm entertaining this weekend, and I've decided to make a Korean-style beef short rib stew which calls for that special Korean ground red pepper. It's a great, hearty cool weather dish, peppery of course and sporting some heat, but not 4-alarm hot. Asian comfort food. We've made it several times to good effect. Previously, I paired it with a Provencal red(Cab/Syrah blend), which worked pretty well, and a young Zinfandel (also not bad). Since we're having company, I'm looking for an alternative suggestion -- that "optimal" pairing for a special occasion (in the $20 to $30 range).

Any suggestions would be welcomed.

Scoop

P.S. We'll serve the stew with rice and carrots sauteed with tarragon and a butter/olive oil mixture. The other courses we've taken care of.