What do I look for?

[Neophyte]

I am extremely new at wine (hence the name). I have started drinking it for my heart health. I have no idea what to look for in a wine. The medical journals say the alcohol helps, but there is a mixed opinion on color. Red seems to be popular. My question is, how do I go about picking a decent, inexpensive, wine? I got a bottle which the liquor store recommended for non-drinkers, but it is disgustingly sweet. It tastes like caugh syrup. PLEASE HELP! Thanks!