Help... I'm a Newbie

[wondersofwine]

You might experiment with zinfandels or Australian shiraz wines for a red you could enjoy (try the Beaujolais first though--they are easy to love). Greg Norman Estates has a decent shiraz and Rosemount wines have been favorably received by a number of people that post here. Rosemount wines might be available at your grocery store if they are allowed to carry wines in Oregon (I imagine they are since Oregon is a wine-producing state).
I prefer a robust zinfandel such as Ridge Lytton Springs but zinfandel comes in a great variety from mild and fruity to big in alcohol and intense flavor. A knowledgeable wine shop staffer could suggest one of the mild brands.