There is a really great and affordable wine out now. Its the Mondavi Woodbridge Zinfandel. This stuff is being sold for around four dollars a bottle. Its almost needless to say but I have been in case mode for this deal. It is a great, well-balanced wine for everyday use.
This wine's zinfandel grapes hail from California's Lodi region, where this variety has a long history dating back to the Gold rush. I personally like the subtle notes of vanilla and cedar in the finish. If you see some, give it a try as you won't be disappointed.