Hi! So im the type of girl who usually goes straight for the moscato or white Zinfandel, only branching out to reds for a "red moscato" or a cheap sweet red blend. I picked up some cheap merlot to test the waters, and im enjoying this bottle! Could you guys give me some affordable recommendations based on what I've enjoyed to guide my wine journey? I especially love big punches of fruit flavor, which is helping me with the dryness. I also like the "zing" mouthfeel and feeling on my lips while drinking this. Maybe because its higher ABV than my usual moscato? Im also interested in trying some more "real wine" fruit forward whites and roses! I dont think i can handle anything spicy, savory or bone dry yet haha.

Also one quick extra question- me and my boyfriend are going on a date to an Italian place Saturday and I planned on ordered a cream based white sauce pasta dish. What basic type of wine should I have with it?

Thank you guys!!! Im trying to leave behind my barefoot moscato days