Need Some Help Choosing Wine for Valentine’s Day Dinner?

I must admit, I prefer my wine cheap, sweet and bubbly. I don't know much about it as 'other kinds' have never been my favourite, although I have had a few that were quite nice with dinner. I just don't remember what they were!

If you are in the same boat and would like to choose a special wine to go with a special dinner with your Valentine, here is some info that may help you choose.

CHAMPAGNE

Let’s begin with the bubbly. Champagne and other sparkling wines are served for people to drink when they celebrate. And, when love is in the air, it is a cause for celebration. Champagnes are a lot sweeter than most wines and all those bubbles tickle the nose and the tongue.

If you are a person who wants to wow their sweetheart this hear, serve a little champagne and strawberries to get the evening started. There are a few choices for you:

• Brut

• Extra Dry

• Demi-Sec

There is a difference that can excite or dull the palate. Brut contains no sweetness at all. Drinking it with sweet strawberries can help.

Extra dry champagne has a hint of sweetness but not much. The strawberries may add a bit of sweetness to the flavor of the champagne. If you want more sweetness from that for your fruity mood maker, try a Demi-Sec. it also goes well with any dessert you serve.

WHITE WINE

This wine goes well with several dishes. Your sweetie will be impressed that you know how to put wine together with food for the perfect complement to the Valentine’s Day meal.

If you like the taste of Chardonnay, they you have a tendency towards fruity flavors. There are many California chardonnays on the market if you prefer a U.S. wine. Choose from medium or full-bodied varieties.

White wine goes well with:

• Pasta dishes

• Chicken

• Fish

For a lighter bodied white wine that includes a nuttier flavor, opt for a Sauvignon blanc or a white Zinfandel.

RED WINE 

Red wine is an acquired taste. Choose from Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Port. Red wines have a variety of flavors that range from light to full-bodied. There is a hint of fruit combined with bolder flavors like licorice, spice, and woodsy flavors.

If you plan on serving red meat or a stew, consider serving a red wine with the meal. Pinot Noir is also an excellent choice for chicken dishes, salmon, and pork.

Have you made special plans to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your sweetie? If you are going for the romantic touch and a little ohh la la, serve some wine with your meal.