One of my friend's families owns the Bodegas Juan Alcorta winery, which is not pricey but very good:

"The Bodega Juan Alcorta, perhaps one of the best in the world, is situated right in the heart of La Rioja, the prestigious growing region."http://www.wine.com/aboutwine/basics/winerydesc.asp?winid=1643

- International Winner 2004, Best of Wine Tourism Awards