It’s no surprise that wine plays a vital role in all things romantic. From the vineyards to the bottle to your glass, wine embodies passion and love—a true labor of love and a symbol of celebration. While there are many good wines available nowadays, these selections are truly special and perfect for sharing with your special someone on Valentine’s Day. Step away from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.
2017 Frank Family Brut Rosé ($55): According to legend, Marilyn Monroe would visit Frank Family’s historic Larkmead winery annually to indulge in some bubbles. One taste of this refined wine, and you’ll be captivated. This Brut Rosé made from 100% Pinot Noir strikes a harmonious balance between richness and acidity, pairing perfectly with a romantic dinner featuring oysters or baked brie. With a light coral pink hue, this lush wine offers flavors of strawberries intertwined with citrus notes and a hint of almond, culminating in a refreshing mineral finish.
2018 Gamble Family Vineyards ‘Heart Block’ Sauvignon Blanc ($95): Inspired by his travels in France, Tom Gamble planted Sauvignon Blanc vines on his Yountville estate vineyard called the Heart Block. This blend of Musque and Preston clones creates a creamy palate described by winemaker Jim Close as “layered, focused, complex & refreshing.” Aromas of lime, lemon zest, Bosque pear, and honeysuckle complement notes of almond blossoms and toasted brioche. This wine delivers intimate flavors of Meyer lemon, green apple, and white grapefruit with a touch of flinty minerality, allowing you to share in the winemaker’s passion for the varietal.
2020 Alma Rosa El Jabali Pinot Noir ($72): From Alma Rosa’s El Jabali vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA comes a unique wine influenced by the nearby transverse mountain range, varied soils, and marine influences. Winemaker Samra Morris, California’s first Bosnian American winemaker, is renowned for crafting vineyard-driven wines, and this one is no exception. With a ruby red color, complex aromatics, prominent red fruit notes, herbs, and bright acidity, this wine is sure to impress your loved one on Valentine’s Day.
2019 Cuvaison Brut Rosé, Méthode Champenoise ($60): This lovely sparkling wine captivates with its light pink hue. Delicate and vibrant red fruit flavors from Pinot Noir combine with the structure and length provided by Chardonnay. Notes of wild strawberry, crisp watermelon, grapefruit, and raspberry create a complex and deep profile. Enjoy it casually with popcorn or elegantly with a rich, creamy risotto.
2019 J. Lohr Signature Cabernet Sauvignon ($100): Introduced in 2017 to commemorate J. Lohr founder Jerry Lohr’s 80th birthday, this wine has since become a flagship of the J. Lohr portfolio. Aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak selected from four coopers, this silky, deep-colored wine is a luxurious choice, perfect for pairing with a savory Valentine’s Day dinner.
Fulldraw FD2 2018 ($55): Fulldraw, a venture by husband-and-wife team Connor and Rebecca McMahon in Paso Robles, showcases the FD2, a blend of Grenache and Syrah that epitomizes the estate’s limestone soils, cooling influences, and unique exposures in the Willow Creek District AVA. The 2018 vintage offers a seamless red blend brimming with rich flavors—an elegant and intricate choice for a special occasion.
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