It occurs to me that a fair number of people generally think that all French wine is tres-pricey Bordeaux and Burgundy, and I think they should know that the vast majority of French wine is actually considerably less expensive. It’s just not the wine that gets all the press.

Compared to California wine (if that’s what you’re used to), French wines may seem less jammy on the fruit flavors, and there may be some mineral and/or earthy notes that are not found as often in California wines. I would encourage you to start trying bottles from France that fit your price range — chances are you’ll get a solid, food-friendly, appealing wine. Here are a few to get you going:

RED
Arrogant Frog 2008 Lily Pad Red Languedoc ($10). Appealing for its dark, briary cherry and plum fruit, with earth, herbal and spicy vanilla notes. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (55%) and Merlot. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-10-18)

Chateau Sainte Eulalie 2007 Minervois Plaisir d’Eulalie ($16). I liked this for its earth- and mineral-laced plum fruit that starts slow and builds through the moderate finish. Quite food friendly — pair with anything from charcuterie and cheeses to stews, short ribs and roasts. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Clos Poggiale 2005 Vin de Corse Red ($28). So easy to like, with concentrated but supple red berry and currant flavors that picks up chocolate, aromatic spices and toasty vanilla notes through the generous, bright finish. Delicious with an array of artisan salami and cheeses. Syrah and Nielluccio. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Robert Skali 2007 Syrah-Grenache Coteaux du Languedoc ($19). Brambly, slightly rustic, dark fruit — currant, berry, blueberry — with light dried herb and mineral accents, and some grip on the finish. Best with food, like roasted meats. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.

WHITE
Clos Poggiale 2007 Vin de Corse White ($24). This white from Corsica is 100% Vermentino and offers pure refreshment. Crisp, clean, lemony, with a mineral touch along the way. Ready to drink now. Works with seared tuna dishes, as well as other fish and shellfish. Locate this wine online or in your area.