Still a baby

[amw5g]

I'd get maybe a couple of Italian moscato d'astis, Alsacian gewurtztraminers or German Spetles, for those who like sweetish/spicey wines. These are priced very nicely, go down like juice and have a low alcohol content (good since you don't want to be the cause of impaired driving).

For middle of the road, perhaps Zin, as Drew suggested. Not a big fan myself, but I was impressed by Ravenswood (that's big Zinfandel). Or maybe some beaujolais-villages. Dare I suggest a lightly chilled 03 nouveau from a respected producer? Perhaps someone else can recommend one they've liked. These, too, are refreshing and drinkable after an evening of treading the boards.

For the real ruddy stuff, some California or Washington Cabs might fit the bill. Ch Ste Michelle, Hess Select, Mt Veeder or Columbia Crest are all approachable and cost-effective wines.

I wish I had some S. American or Italian suggestions for you, as I know they have excellent cost/quality ratios, but I'm nearly as inexperienced as you and haven't yet gotten those areas under my belt just yet.

Ah, the roar of the greasepaint, the smell of the crowd....

-Andrew