My favorite wine grape is Pinot Noir. It is used extensively in wines from Bourgogne (Burgundy) and the best and - most expensive comes from that region. Oregon makes come excellent, light fruity Pinot Noir, some of the best in the USA. From about $20 and up.
Pinot Noir is perfect for dates with providers since many of the lighter wines do not require to be opened well in advance or to be decanted and can be enjoyed right away.
I have found two good buys that are readily available in grocery stores. Both are from California.
My preference is Meiomi, a mix of Pinot Noir from several counties. It is about $20. Real affordable is Mirassou for less than $10.
National Wine Day
Good red wine for dates
