Uncorking Romance: A Valentine's Day Wine Guide

Valentine's Day is synonymous with romance, and what better way to set a sophisticated and intimate mood than with the perfect bottle of wine? Whether you're planning a lavish home-cooked meal, a cozy movie night, or just an excuse to treat yourselves, selecting the right wine can elevate your celebration from ordinary to unforgettable.

The Classics: Tried and True Valentine’s Day Wine Pairings

You can't go wrong with these timeless choices that evoke classic romance and pair beautifully with traditional Valentine's fare.

Champagne or Sparkling Wine

Nothing says celebration quite like bubbles. A crisp Brut Champagne or a high-quality Prosecco is the quintessential Valentine's aperitif. Its effervescence and acidity cleanse the palate and perfectly complement light appetizers like oysters, shrimp cocktail, or cheese.

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• The Romantic Touch: Opt for a Rosé Champagne. The beautiful pink hue is inherently romantic, and the slight fruitiness makes it versatile enough to pair with dinner or even a lighter dessert.

Occasional Valentine’s Day Wine Picks

• David Léclapart Cuvée L'Aphrodisiaque Premier Cru - 94 Points - $279.95
• 2012 Billecart-Salmon Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon Brut Rosé - 97 Points - $209.95
• 2017 Roederer Estate L’Ermitage Brut - 96 Points - $74.95
• Henri Champliau Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Rosé - 95 Points - $36.95
• Dumanjin Cuvée 17 - 91 Points - $29.95

Pinot Noir

If your main course is something elegant like duck, salmon, or a mushroom risotto, Pinot Noir is an ideal choice. This light-bodied red is known for its delicate aromas of cherry, strawberry, and earth. It’s complex yet gentle, ensuring it enhances the meal without overpowering the flavors—much like a good partner.

Occasional Valentine’s Day Wine Picks

• 2023 RAEN 'Royal St. Robert Cuvée' Pinot Noir - 99 Points - $78.95
• 2021 Roar Garys' Vineyard Pinot Noir - 97 Points - $74.95
• 2021 Lucia by Pisoni Garys' Vineyard Pinot Noir - 97 Points - $76.95
• 2021 Domaine Drouhin 'Laurène' Dundee Hills Pinot Noir - 96 Points - $69.95
• 2022 Hundred Suns Bednarik Vineyard Pinot Noir - 96 Points - $52.95

Setting the Mood: Wine for Ambiance

Sometimes the wine isn't just about the food; it's about the atmosphere you want to create.

For the Intimate Dinner: Cabernet Sauvignon

If you're serving a rich, savory dish like prime rib, steak, or a hearty lamb, a bold Cabernet Sauvignon is your companion. This full-bodied red offers deep notes of blackcurrant, cedar, and vanilla, providing a warming, luxurious feeling that's perfect for a candlelit dinner. Decanting this wine an hour before serving will enhance its aromas and flavor profile.

Occasional Valentine’s Day Wine Picks

• 2015 Ridge Montebello - 100 Points - $199.95
• 2019 Paradigm Cabernet Sauvignon - 98 Points - $79.95
• 2021 Aperture Cabernet Sauvignon - 96 Points - $74.95
• 2020 Bledsoe Cabernet Sauvignon - 97 Points - $49.95
• 2019 Obsidian Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon - 93 Points - $29.95

For a Cozy Night In: Rosé

Rosé isn't just for summer! A dry, crisp Provence Rosé offers a beautiful spectrum of flavors, from bright citrus to subtle red berries. It’s refreshing, easy-drinking, and pairs well with everything from takeout pizza to charcuterie boards, making it the perfect low-effort, high-reward choice for a casual night of connection.

Occasional Valentine’s Day Wine Picks

• 2023 By Ott Côtes de Provence Rosé - 93 Points - $29.95
• 2020 Château Roubine Rosé Premium Cru Classé - 93 Points - $18.95
• 2023 Caelestis Cellars Tempranillo Rosé - 90 Points $36.95
• 2022 Les Sarrins Côtes de Provence Rosé - 90 Points - $16.95

The Sweet Finale: Dessert Wine Pairings

The climax of any Valentine's meal is often dessert, and this is where a quality dessert wine can truly shine.

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Tips for Achieving the Perfect Pour of Wine

• Temperature Matters: Ensure your wine is served at the optimal temperature. Sparkling and white wines should be well-chilled (45-50°F), Rosé slightly chilled, and most reds should be served slightly below room temperature (60-65°F).
• Personal Preference First: The most romantic wine is the one you both enjoy. Don't feel pressured to follow 'rules'—if you love a Malbec with seafood, go for it!
• Presentation: Use your best glassware, light a few candles, and perhaps use a simple, elegant wine stopper. The small details amplify the romantic experience.

This Valentine's Day, let the wine be more than just a beverage; let it be a symbol of shared pleasure, thoughtfulness, and the love you celebrate. Cheers to a truly romantic evening!

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Occasional Wine: The perfect pour for life's most precious moments.  

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Occasional Wine is an online boutique wine shop, veteran owned and operated, dedicated to offering the world's best wines. Our selection of wines is curated to satisfy every palate and perfectly complement any occasion.

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