I come across people all the time that are downright intimidated by the thought of buying wine. As a vintner, my parents even call me at the last minute asking what wine they should buy for a dinner party or a gift. In each case, I tell people the same thing: trust your local wine merchant.
There are many sites online that offer advice (and tips!) on buying a great wine at all price points, but the best way to become more familiar with wine and end up getting a good bottle for your needs, I recommend you visit your local wine shop. Personally, I prefer a small shop that is locally owned and operated, and find that that is where you will find the best value/quality combination. While most people feel that they can get a great bottle at their local grocery store or warehouse store, the wines that you will find there are large production wines, most likely coming from a corporation, not a smaller winery.
So, next time you need a good or great bottle of wine at any price, stop in to your neighborhood wine shop and ask for some help. Don't be embarrassed if you are not familiar with terminology, just tell them what you like and they will point you in the right direction. Who knows, this could be the start of a great love affair... (with wine, not the wine merchant!)
Jo
