Valentine’s Day conjures images of romance, chocolate, roses, and of course, wine. Selecting the right red to set the mood for a romantic evening can be daunting. Certain grapes and regions are renowned for producing sensual, smooth reds perfect for moments of passion. I’ve compiled my top tips on choosing, serving and pairing romantic red wines to make your Valentine’s evening memorable for all the right reasons.
Rich, Smooth Reds
When selecting a romantic red, rich, velvety and smooth textures enhance the sensuality of the moment. My top grape recommendations include:
Merlot – This medium-bodied Bordeaux grape produces supple, fruit-forward wines with plum and blackberry notes. Quintessential merlots come from Chile or Washington state. British wine critic Oz Clarke favours a Chilean Los Vascos merlot, calling it “seductively easy-drinking, with soft, supple black fruits”.
Malbec – Hailing from Argentina, malbec’s lush dark fruit flavours pair beautifully with Valentine’s Day surf and turf. For an exemplary romantic red, I suggest an Argentinian Colomé malbec. Wine writer Victoria Moore recommends it as “broodingly intense” with “an enormous swirl of blackberry fruit”.
Pinot Noir – The lightness and delicacy of pinot noir grapes complement romantic moments. Renowned pinots come from New Zealand, Oregon or Burgundy. Kiwi winemaker and Master of Wine Sam Harrop extols New Zealand’s Amisfield pinot noir for its “beguiling perfume and silk-textured cherry fruit”.
Perfect Pairings
Certain dishes enhance the romance of an evening. Opt for recipes featuring aphrodisiac ingredients like oysters, chocolate, honey and truffles. Classic pairings include:
Merlot – Mushroom ravioli, beef wellington
Malbec – Steak, cheese platter
Pinot noir – Seared salmon, chocolate-covered strawberries
When servings a special dessert, consider matching the sweetness intensity. Serve an off-dry merlot with chocolate mousse or opt for a sweet late harvest wine with an intense chocolate cake.
Setting the Mood
Creating ambience is key in romantic situations. Follow these serving tips:
Chill wine to 16-18°C and allow to breathe in the glass for fuller flavour
Use stemmed glasses for easiest swirling and sniffing
Keep lighting low and music soft and sensual
Have extra bottles ready so the evening isn’t interrupted
By selecting a luscious red, pairing perfectly, and setting the mood, wine can turn an ordinary evening into an extraordinary romantic encounter. This Valentine’s Day, break out one of these sultry, smooth reds and let the passion flow!