Eric Asimov, the nephew of Isaac Asimov and more importantly one of the wine critics at the New York Times, published a great list of wines under $20 he recommends last month.
I bought a few of them, and ended up really liking the "Premier Pas" Carignan from Domaine des 2 Ânes. It's not going to win any awards, but it's a good bottle for your next date night or dinner party.