It’s time to take another look through Cupid’s cellar to see what we can pair with the romantic occasion
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Whenever Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday, it just feels like there’s an extra dose of romance in the air. Or perhaps that’s just the whiff of increased expectations given the V-Day weekend lead-in?
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Regardless of the day, the Wine Guy fully supports all romance: Whether budding, mature or hopeless.
And to pair with the occasion, it’s time to take another look through Cupid’s cellar.
See Ya Later Ranch 2022 Pinot Noir, B.C.
($19.99, on sale until March 1, #75267)
For the local lover. True, Pinot Noir is colloquially known as the heartbreak grape. But that nickname is earned by this finicky, challenging grape’s proclivity to cause winegrowers heartache in the vineyards. From an imbiber’s perspective, Pinot Noir is nothing but delight. As an example, See Ya Later Ranch’s Pinot Noir is openly expressive, an engaging mélange of savoury and fruity with aromas of dark berry butting against forest floor and an underlying nuance of oak. A fulsome but bright finish concludes affairs, and if looking to chef up a meal for your Valentine this red would go wonderfully with rack of lamb and/or mushroom risotto.
Bottom line: B. Fun and fulsome.
Chiara Condello 2022 Romagna Sangiovese Predappio, Italy
($25.99, on sale until March 1, #7664)
For the heady lover. Sangiovese is serious wine love language. Expressive and aromatic, robust yet feisty — not to mention the Italian connection — it’s no wallflower grape. For a unique and distinct take, it’s worth checking out Chiara Condello’s Romagna Sangiovese Predappio. As the name suggests, this wine is produced with organically grown Sangiovese from the Predappio region in the broader Romagna appellation. And it brings all the feels: luscious dark cherry along with flowers and bramble, with consistent bright tones, followed by firm tannins and a touch of funk to finish. Dinner-wise, braised short ribs or ratatouille is the call!
Bottom line: A-. Gutsy yet elegant.
Graham’s 2017 Late Bottled Vintage Port, Portugal
($26.99 on sale until March 1, #191239)
For the fortified lover. Port doesn’t get enough play these days. Sure, light and low carb rule the day. But if any occasion warrants a time to pause, slow things down, indulge and fortify the meaning of the moment, well it’s Valentine’s Day. Late Bottled Vintage Port makes a sensible pick, after all the serious aging has been done for you and it’s ready to sip right out the gate. Graham’s LBV is chuff full of plum, dried fruit, and spice. It’s sweet but balanced, and a great way to end the evening alongside a hunk of dark chocolate or a wedge of aged Manchego cheese.
Bottom line: A-. Liquid decadence.