Some Wine For My Valentine

It’s Valentine’s Day weekend and you are faced with the undoubting task of selecting a wine. With so many to choose from it may not seem easy but it can be.

Depending on the occasion here are a few of my Lake Erie North Shore and Pelee Island wine recommendations for Valentine’s Day.

A sparkling wine is good for any occasion. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs well with just about anything. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on Champagne either. Two local wineries recently released sparkling wines. Colio Estate Winery’s Frizzante ($9.75)  and Pelee Island Winery’s Secco ($15.75) should be considered.

Looking for a white wine? Consider picking up a Riesling or Auxerrois.  These wines are normally light and do not need a meal to be appreciated.  I recommend the following local white wines for Valentine’s Day.

Riesling

• Sprucewood Shores Riesling 2009 (12.95)
• CREW (Colchester Ridge Estate Winery) Riesling 2009 ($14)
• Sanson Riesling 2008 ($14.95)

Auxerrois

• Viewpointe Auxerrois 2008 ($14.95)

Or get the best of both from Smith & Wilson’s Vista del Lago 2009 ($13) It’s a deliciously crafted blend of Auxerrois and Riesling.

Red wines are all about romance. They can be rich, lush, sexy, and perfect for sharing with your Valentine.  The choice for reds is extensive, and really depends on your personal taste.

If you are looking for a big red with lots of body go for a Cabernet Sauvignon. Pairs well with beef too. Consider Muscedere Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 ($30). It shows incredible balance and complexity. Pair with beef steak or lambs for a real treat.

Pinot Noir is lighter, and a bit more earthy red wine that should also be considered. I often found Pinot Noir a bit too light and missing something until I discovered Pelee Island’s Alvar Pinot Noir 2008 ($14.95). This one has been blended with a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon giving the wine more body and structure.

The most important thing to remember as you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your love is to have fun and enjoy yourself  and enjoy the food, wine and conversation.