Valentine’s Day is Friday and if you’re stuck on what wine to buy, here are some ideas. With so many choices, I called local retailers for advice on what is trending for love birds.
The most popular gift for female drinkers (with overwhelming consensus) was Champagne or anything that bubbles. I admit there is a special something about the celebratory feel bubbly offers. If you are looking to genuinely impress, consider finding vintage Champagne with a year special to your valentine, such as the year of your first date, wedding anniversary, major life accomplishment or first child. Brut (dry) rose bubbly was another popular recommendation. After all, what is more romantic than the pink or rosy color of flowers, candy and hearts?
For men and women alike, robust red full-bodied wine is another favorite for a valentine. I would recommend asking for assistance from your fine wine retailer. With the many styles available, sometimes knowing the story behind a vintage can aid in selection.
My favorite and most romantic of reds is the Calon Segur. The label of this prestigious property of Saint-Estephe has an elegant heart surrounding the name, making it an ideal choice for the occasion. It’s said that owner Marquis Nicolas-Alexandre de Segur claimed, “I make wine in Latour and Lafite but my heart is in Calon” as the reason behind the heart.
Consider an aged red wine rather than a bottle from the most recent vintage. I always find these wines offer an added romance of longevity and commitment to time.
THE VALUES
- NV Segura Viudas Brut Rose, Spain (about $12 retail)
- 2011 Maddalena Cabernet Sauvignon, California (about $19 retail)
THE SPLURGES
- NV Roederer Estate Brut, California (about $28 retail)
- 2010 Reynolds Family Winery Persistence Red, California (about $57 retail)
- NV Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label, France (about $68 retail)
- NV Moet & Chandon Imperial Rose, France (about $77 retail)