[Jaggergirl]

Here's a good rule of thumb: wines will usually taste differently according to where they are from. The classic way to divide it up is Old World (Europe) vs. New World (Cali, Austrailia, Chile, etc).

In my experience I've found that New World wines are sweeter (they harvest the grapes at a riper time) and less complicated (that's a soil issue). The one exception would be German wines which are usually *very* sweet. Some of them nearly taste like juice. Personally I like Old World wines but that's just me. They have a more complex flavor and I feel like I'm getting more out of it.

So if you are having a meal with big flavors get a red wine that has a full body (you should be able to ask the clerk about that). A Bourdeax -- i'm probably spelling that wrong -- would be a good bet. Shiraz (or Shiray) is generally considered a dessert wine as it's a bit lighter and sweeter.

If you're just sitting with each other and you want a nice wine that you can drink by itself, I'd recommend the Les Jamelles Merlot. It's a great French table wine that isn't expensive at all (I buy it for about 8.99) and tastes great.

Good luck and happy anniversary.