Chocolate may melt their heart, but wine is always divine on Valentine’s Day. Especially when packaged in romantic Italian bottles or impressive French rosé Champagne, blushing and ready to pop with bubbles. Whether dining out or staying in, consider these three readily available, affordable bottles – plus a splurge choice.
Everyone needs a super Tuscan in their life, and this Italian gem delivers old-school charm with ripe berry flavors giving way to chocolate, violet and earthy tones. The blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is harmoniously rich and bold to the finish. (About $15)
Pair with: lamb, roasted chicken or pheasant, Tuscan- style pastas, pâté
Buy it or sip it: Spec’s, Richard’s Liquors, Whole Foods, Tinys No. 5, Backstreet Cafe
This bright sparkling beauty is crafted with organic grapes and boasts fruity flavors and aromas of apples, pears and citrus. It’s superbly balanced with a crisp finish and tiny bubbles that dance on your tongue. (About $15)
Pair with: seafood, light pastas, salads, soft cheeses, strawberries and chocolate
Buy it or sip it: Kroger, HEB, Spec’s, Pizzaria Solario, Cane Rosso
Here’s a splurge choice that consistently receives 90+ points in wine reviews. Wild strawberry, lime and hawthorn blossom notes come together in this delectable Champagne, which touts a gorgeous salmon hue. (About $45)
Pair with: salmon, mushroom dishes, light roasted or grilled meats, soft cheeses
Buy it or sip it: Richard’s Liquors, Spec’s, Whole Foods, Brasserie 19
The name says it all: Gran Passione is perfect for intimate Italian-inspired dinners at home because it tastes much more expensive than it is. The blend of Merlot and Corvina, which is similar to Amarone, is intense and full bodied, displaying rich red and black fruits. (About $10)
Pair with: grilled steak, hearty tomato sauce pastas, Tuscan-style salads, hard cheeses
Buy it or sip it: Kroger, Spec’s, Goody Goody Liquor, Fleming’s, Harold’s
Looking for a recipe to cook your sweetie this Valentine’s Day? Try Andrew Zimmern’s luscious herbed shrimp capellini with spicy bread crumbs.