There are a number of even cheaper reds from Chile and Argentina that are pretty good.
You generally can't go wrong with any Malbec or Merlot.
Splurge on the occasional Appellation Controlee Bordeaux, though, just to see what you've been missing.
A little more costly, but worth every penny for a special dinner.
We've been drinking and enjoying more red wine recently.
My wife used to think that she didn't really like a dry red, but she has come to appreciate them more.