Try an Australian Shiraz some time. That was my go to bottle when I was starting to get into wine. It's got enough fruit taste to it to give the perception of sweetness, though there's not much in the way of residual sugar.
Australian Shiraz is great but can be gigantic and hard to drink. Penfolds is a good Australian brand to stick with. It isn't going to win any contest, but has what most easy going wine drinkers are looking for, subtle flavors, big floral and easy finish. If you are trying to impress somebody Penfolds Bin 13 is excellent, but a little bit pricier.