The recurrently "snooty" Wine Spectator

[hotwine]

I'm frustrated by WS, too. But like Innkeeper, I subscribe because they do publish interesting articles.
Bargain-hunting in wine shops takes a lot of time. And you've got to be willing to visit, look over their stock, and leave without making a purchase (as I did this evening). My suggestion is to set your price range, and watch for new ones of the types you prefer to come available. Then buy three bottles and try them with the foods with which they are traditionally paired. I bring home "strays" like that about once a week; some won't be bought again, but those that pass muster will be added to the routine stocking list. It's a way to expand my horizons without breaking the bank.
And quite honestly, there seem to be many more bargains among European wines than among those made here in the States. Which suits me just fine, for I consider too many domestic wines to be over-oaked, over-rated, and over-priced. And decidedly underwhelming.