So Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Are you prepared? To help, here are a few suggestions for wines that may enhance your Valentine’s Day experience.
Style counts and pleasing your beloved’s tastes is vital. A massive red wine that pounds your senses, or a wimpy, wallflower of a wine probably isn’t the best choice. Ah, but a classy, sense-stimulating expression of the noble grape, now that’s something that can heat things up.
Bubbly is the classic beverage of romance and it has earned its reputation. The very mention of Champagne and caviar evokes images of an intimate, romantic interlude. Bright and refreshing, Champagne is also especially versatile in pairing with food.
Consumers often use the term “Champagne” not only for French Champagne or Champagne-styled wines, but also for other sparkling wines. Dear reader, there are serious differences. Many countries produce sparkling wines that are made using different methods and grapes. Though thoroughly enjoyable, they may lack the same fine texture and elegance of Champagne.
Sparkling wines can range from dry to dessert wine sweet. Your choices include vintage Champagne such as Dom Pérignon, dependable non-vintage Champagne, affordable, worthy domestic sparkling wines including Roederer Estate Brut, or a Spumante; Martini & Rossi is one of the better known. Decide what level of sweetness you prefer and a knowledgeable wine seller can help you find the ideal bottle.
A well-balanced, mellow Chardonnay can help set an equally mellow mood. The Bernardus from California is smooth, rich and has a buttery creaminess, with aromas of tropical fruit, citrus and a hint of toasty spice. Pair with poultry, creamy pasta, or succulently sauced pork tenderloin for flavor harmony.
Classy, elegant and refined describes a good Pinot Noir. A light-to-medium bodied red wine, Pinot can be rich and complex with layers of tantalizing flavors. It’s a wonderful wine to share with that special someone, particularly if the food is also of medium weight such as Salmon with capers or a Filet Mignon roast.
A to Z Estate Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley is one that offers great value from a region recognized for Pinot. Its fresh fruit flavors and silky texture make it romance in the glass.
Full-bodied red wines are a wonderful complement to many full-flavored foods. They best complement red meat and game, grilled foods, rich pasta dishes, and richly flavored cheeses.
Orin Swift Prisoner is a mix of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Ripe, hearty and full-bodied, it’s still voluptuously smooth on the palate with juicy aromas and dark-fruit flavors.
Chocolate is to Valentine’s Day as turkey is to Thanksgiving. Character ports are reasonably priced and a perfect pairing with chocolate. Fonseca’s Bin 27 or Sandeman Founder’s Reserve are fine examples that enhance the qualities of chocolate and chocolate-flavored desserts.
These suggestions are only a few of the choices available. What other grape or style of wine excites your senses and enflames the embers in your belly, stirring your romantic soul? A silky, intense Petite Syrah? Maybe a sweet Canadian Ice-wine will be the one to melt your lover’s heart.
No matter which special wine you choose to share, it’s your “aide-de-camp,” there to help you kindle the fires of passion and let them know how special they are.
May your Valentine’s Day be overflowing with warmth, love and tenderness.
Ron Hull is the wine, spirits and beer expert at Winetree East.
