Novice in every sense of the word

[Just*Me]

Hi everyone, I've just recently come to appreciate wines. For now I try what is available with dinner. I have also visited my local wine shop and have found that I like the darker (red) wines best.

Not knowing much else (other than my personal taste that is)can anyone give me any suggestions? What to try, what to buy, what to stay away from. My price range has been between $15-$20 per bottle, though in the future I wouldn't mind spending more for a good wine. I live in LA so my choices, I imagine, are broad.

[Thomas]

Get yourself to Wineexpo, a wine shop in Santa Monica. Ask for Roberto and you will be on your way...

[Innkeeper]

Foodie's suggestion is right on. Also go to Southern Hemishere Wine Center in Huntington Beach and ask for John. They have a great selection of reds from Oz, Kiwiland, Argentina, and South Africa. They have them from Chile too, but I don't like them.

[Just*Me]

Wow, thanks guys! I have actually tried a red wine from Chile and I loved it! So much so that we bought a bottle to take home (had a glass with dinner). I still have the (empty) bottle, so when I go back to the restaurant I can order it again. I'll let you know what it was...

[Just*Me]

I think that Chilean wine was Caliterra (cab.sauv)...

[Innkeeper]

Haven't tried that one. It retails for around $7.50, so it is definitely in my price range!

[Just*Me]

That's sounds about right, I don't remember it being too expensive and I really liked it!