One of the affordable pleasures I have enjoyed this year is getting to know some of the Cru Beaujolais Appellations. Unlike many French Crus, Beaujolais Crus are much more affordable and give you the opportunity to experience some of the best of a wine region without having to pay triple digit prices.
Some of my favorites are shown here. Cote de Bouilly (grapes grown on the side of a Volcano), Morgon Cote de Py and Julienas The Cote de Brouilly wines I have tried have had a distinct finish that I like and that I find on wines where the soil is noted as being volcanic. The Morgon seem to be good examples of wines that are earthy in a good way (this is something they are noted for) and the Julienas I have tried have had a good berry note and stronger tannin in the finish. If you try some of these or some other Crus let us which ones and what you think of them.
if you are looking for an importer with a good reputation, Kemit Lynch has a line of Cru Beaujolais that multiple reputable wine merchants have recommended to me.