Some odd and interesting wines tossed in, but at the $15 price point, how about Salice Salentino (Negroamoro) and Aglianico?  Nero D'Avola?  Lots of wines made from these grapes deliver a lot for $15 or less.

Tough to represent every region, I know ....

Don't forget Portugal and Argentina,  many nice wines at reasonable prices, especially if you shop around.

And Chile has some of my favorite whites, too, at great prices (~$10).  

Agree with all of you. No need to go for expensive French wines. Even CA makes great wines. I have been to Italy about 7 times, and I never cared for their Chiantis. Too watery for me. I like a wine with some character, and true to this postings, there are many wonderful, low priced wines from all over the word. Cheers!

I have to say though, I always return to Bolla Soave,  a classic standby if you like dry white wine.