There are many legends surrounding the origins of Saint Valentine’s Day, a day traditionally dedicated to romance. However, most of the accounts involving a young priest, Valentine of Rome, who was martyred in 269 A.D., and the Roman Emperor Claudius II, do not necessarily engender many romantic notions. But one popular story that seems to hang its proverbial hat on the passion peg reveals that the Emperor believed that young, single men made better soldiers than married ones, so he decided to outlaw marriage. Much to his dismay, Claudius discovered that Valentine would secretly perform marriage ceremonies for men about to be conscripted into the army. Needless to say, Claudius was not amused and had Valentine arrested and then executed. So much for romance. But today, Valentine’s memory lives on as a day devoted to lovers who display their affection for one another by exchanging flowers, chocolates, cards and — if I have anything to say about it — wine. After all, a lot of wine is red — a color traditionally associated with Valentine’s Day — and it can be very romantic, or at least be the muse that encourages romance. Here are some recommendations that are sure to enhance romance on February 14th. Retail prices are approximate.
Proseccos are a wonderful way to start off an evening of romance. Their tiny bubbles transform any routine meal into a special occasion. If you plan on having chocolate-covered strawberries, try serving it with the Non-vintage Santi Nello Prosecco di Valdobbiadene from Italy ($15). This tasteful sparkler displays abundant nectarine and citrus notes. The finish is crisp and dry and features hints of citrus and roasted almonds. Make sure you serve it well-chilled, in a fluted glass so you can enjoy the bubbles best.
Sushi can be seen as a very sensual dish, so why not swing by a high-end market and pick up an assortment of Japanese fare as well as a bottle of 2009 Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Pinot Gris from Monterey County, California ($15). The flavors of grapefruit, orange blossoms and lime are balanced by the bright acidity. Hints of minerals and wet stone on the finish add depth and length to the crisp refreshing finish.
Roses may be red, but ros?s are for lovers. One of my favorite examples of this versatile wine is the 2009 Etude Pinot Noir Ros? from Carneros, California ($20). The lighter-styled wine is made by bleeding the juice off of the grape skins a little earlier than usual, producing a wine that sports more of a pink hue. The bouquet is bursting with fresh aromas of watermelon, peach and a touch of lavender. Abundant acidity fills the mouth and supports bright flavors of strawberry, cherry and rhubarb flavors that end with a zesty, clean finish. A perfect match with soft cheeses or grilled salmon.
Cupcakes are all the rage right now, and it’s easy to see why. They’re fun to share and a tad nostalgic. One of my favorite wine picks for this season of amore is the 2009 Cupcake Vineyards Red Velvet from California ($14). This blend of zinfandel, merlot, cabernet sauvignon and petite sirah features soft scents of blackberry, boysenberry and warm chocolate. Flavors of blackberry jam, plum and dark cherry fill the mouth and lead to a finish that lingers with hints of cinnamon and mocha. While I am sure that this wine would be a classic match with steak, I am actually going to try it with a red velvet cupcake.
Valentine’s Day is all about declaring — or reaffirming — your love and affection for the special someone in your life. There is no bigger or bolder wine that says “be mine” quite like the 2007 d’Arenberg “Love Grass” Shiraz from Australia ($18). From the deep red color in the glass to the concentrated flavors of dark plums, strawberry jam, black cherries and pepper that dominate the palate, this wine is simply seductive. The addition of cabernet sauvignon and petit verdot add an extra dimension of depth to the long, luscious finish, where hints of smoked meats and black olives glide in and mingle with more peppery notes.
