Be My Valen-Wine
4 Wines for Valentine’s Day with Romantic Connections
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate love, and what better way to do that than with a thoughtfully curated selection of wines? Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner at home or a cozy night in, we’ve chosen four wines that not only taste incredible but also have romantic connections to set the mood. From sparkling to dessert, each bottle tells a story of passion, elegance, and indulgence.
Here are our top picks for Valentine’s Day, complete with food pairing suggestions to make your celebration unforgettable:
Sparkling: Champagne or Prosecco
Romantic Connection: Bubbles are synonymous with celebration, and nothing says “I love you” like the pop of a cork. Sparkling wines are often associated with toasts, milestones, and romantic moments.
Wine Pick:
Adami ‘Vigneto Giardino’ Rive di Colbertaldo, Valdobbiadene, Italy: Adami's Vigneto Giardino was the first single-vineyard Prosecco ever made, in 1933, showing the potential of top-tier vineyards to make unique wines at a time when it was standard practice to blend together several different vineyards. Vigneto Giardinoliterally Garden Vineyardwas the family's first vineyard, purchased in 1920.
Pairing Suggestion:
Start your evening with a glass of bubbly paired with oysters on the half shell or a charcuterie board featuring creamy cheeses, prosciutto, and fresh fruit. The crisp acidity and effervescence of the wine will cleanse your palate and set the tone for the meal ahead.
Rosé: Provence Rosé
Romantic Connection: Rosé is the color of blushing cheeks and sunsets, evoking warmth and affection. Its delicate pink hue and refreshing flavor make it a romantic choice for sharing.
Wine Pick:
La Spinetta ‘Rose di Casanova’ Tuscany, Italy: Inspired by Provencal Rosés, the Rivetti decided to produce one rosé from their porfolio. The fascinating characteristics of Sangiovese and Prugnolo Gentile, permitted us to create a wine that shows great character, an intense aroma, and which is very pleasant to drink. It has a floral and fruity bouquet with hints of citrus and Mediterranean scrub.
Pairing Suggestion:
Pair this elegant rosé with a light seafood dish like grilled shrimp or seared scallops. Alternatively, try it with a strawberry and arugula salad topped with goat cheese and a balsamic glaze. The wine’s bright acidity and subtle fruit notes will complement the dish beautifully.
White Wine: Chardonnay
Romantic Connection: Chardonnay is a classic, versatile wine that’s as sophisticated as it is comforting. Its rich, buttery texture and notes of apple and vanilla make it a luxurious choice for a romantic evening.
Wine Pick:
Matthiasson ‘Linda Vista’ Chardonnay, Napa Valley: Zesty Meyer lemon combines with ripe Golden Delicious apples, yellow peaches, musk melon, and honey to deliver a beautifully balanced Chardonnay with a clean finish and haunting minerality
Pairing Suggestion:
Serve this Chardonnay with a creamy pasta dish like fettuccine Alfredo or lobster mac and cheese. The wine’s richness will mirror the decadence of the dish, creating a harmonious pairing. For a lighter option, try it with roasted chicken or a vegetable risotto.
Pinot Noir
Romantic Connection: Pinot Noir is often called the “heartbreak grape” because it’s notoriously difficult to grow, but when done right, it’s pure magic. Its silky texture and notes of red berries and earth make it a sensual and romantic choice.
Wine Pick:
J Christopher Pinot Noir, Oregon: This second-label Willamette Valley wine is a blend of barrels from the three appellations where J. Christopher has long-standing grower relations. It’s an appealing, fruit-forward expression of cool-climate Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
Pairing Suggestion:
Pair this Pinot Noir with a dish that’s equally elegant, like duck à l’orange, herb-crusted lamb chops, or mushroom risotto. The wine’s bright acidity and earthy undertones will enhance the flavors of the dish, creating a memorable dining experience.
Dessert Wine: Brachetto d’Acqui
Romantic Connection: Brachetto d’Acqui is the ultimate Valentine’s Day wine—sweet, lightly sparkling, and bursting with notes of ripe strawberries, rose petals, and a hint of spice. Its low alcohol content and effervescence make it irresistibly easy to sip, while its romantic ruby-red hue sets the perfect mood for love.
Wine Pick:
Marenco Pineto Brachetto d’Acqui, Piedmont, Italy: Delicate, ruby red color. Elegant aromas of rose, and raspberries; typical of the Brachetto grape. Aromatic, delicate, and harmonious on the palate.
Pairing Suggestion:
Pair it with dark chocolate desserts, fresh berries, or a cheese plate featuring creamy brie and mascarpone for a decadent, romantic treat. It’s like dessert in a glass, making it the perfect way to end your Valentine’s celebration on a sweet note. Cheers to love!
Make It a Night to Remember
This Valentine’s Day, let wine be the star of your celebration. Whether you’re sharing a bottle of sparkling wine to start the evening or sipping dessert wine by candlelight, these wines are sure to set the mood for romance. And don’t forget the food pairings—they’re the perfect way to elevate your experience and create a meal that’s as memorable as the company.
Cheers to love, laughter, and great wine!