Picking a bottle of wine for your Valentine’s Day celebrations shouldn’t bring you heartache. Instead, it should fill you with joy, knowing that you will celebrate it with someone special or just by yourself curled up on the couch for the night. To make things easier for you, we reached out to the team at Sunday Vinyl in Denver, Colorado. Recently nominated for a James Beard Award in the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverage Program category, they know a thing or two about wine.
“Valentine’s day is a perfect time to treat yourself or your loved one to my favorite love language, wine. In this case, it’s the sip that counts, so here is a list of wines designed for maximum pleasure,” says Clara Klein, the lead Sommelier at Sunday Vinyl. “These are a few selections full of character and ease. During this time of year, I always gravitate to wines with softness and a touch of weight, as they are perfect for sipping on their own or to pair with home-cooked fare. Think plush reds, rosés in every shade, and winter whites. Sharing wine is a satisfying form of care that is simple but oh-so meaningful. It always leads to the best conversations and helps shed the nerves.”
Here are twelve wines to search out this holiday or any evening you want to celebrate.
Maison Noir Wines “Love Drunk” Rosé 2022
This is a blend of mostly Chardonnay with a dollop of Pinot Noir made for the people. It’s soft and luscious with a great backbone of acidity. The best part, this is made by Andre Mack, ex-sommelier at Per Se in New York. $20
Belle Glos 2020 Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir
Belle Glos is famous for making luxurious, terroir-driven Pinot Noirs from maritime-influenced vineyards in California. This Pinot Noir has a silky smooth texture that leads to a balanced finish that perfectly pairs with anything sweet or savory. It’s a perfect wine to bust out for a night of joy. $55
Vietti Barbera d’Asti Tre Vigne 2020
Nothing screams love like a Barbera. It’s always so plush and juicy. Whether you are having a romantic pasta dinner or a cozy Netflix
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Brendel Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon allows the distinction of the grape to shine unabashedly. This wine is a nod to history –Brendel’s namesake is Leon Brendel, a Napa Valley winemaking pioneer – as the range showcases the historical style of Napa Valley winemaking with a modern twist. It’s a fresh take on a modern classic that gracefully unfolds with each sip. $50
At Roca Cava Rosé Brut Reserva, Augustí Torelló Roca
All organically farmed, this dry Rosé sparkling is made in the champagne method and has an incredibly fine bubble. Refreshing and coastal, this Brut Reserva is savory-edged. A perfect pairing with a meat and cheese board. $25
GH Mumm Grand Cordon Rosé
Cracking open a bottle of sparkling wine is a must on Valentine’s Day. The lightness and fun from each sip will put everyone in a joyful mood. This intensely fruity rosé is brimming with flavors of red and black berries and is great on its own or paired with spicy dishes. $55
Patrick Bottex Bugey Cerdon Rosé La Cueille
If you need a bottle to finish the night off with a touch of sweetness, look no further than this Bugey Cerdon. Coming from France, this is sparkling rosé, a blend of Poulsard and Gamay from the Cerdon cru of the Bugey. An absolute crusher, and there never seems to be enough. Incredible with berries and cream. $22
Santa Margherita’s Rosé
Loaded with fresh strawberries and pink grapefruit flavors, this Italian beauty is a delightful blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Nero that pairs well with any dish or to sip together. Plus, you can enjoy it with a clean conscience since it is both sustainable and vegan-friendly. $27
Ponzi Vineyards Laurelwood Pinot Noir 2019
This affordable Pinot works perfectly with a wide range of dishes, from steaks to salads, making it an ideal bottle for your date night. Pop it open while cooking your romantic dinner, and let it work its magic once it hits your taste buds. $48
Robert Mondavi Winery Estates Fume Blanc 2019
Made from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon grapes that were hand-harvested throughout the summer before aging on the lees for eight months in French oak barrels (30% new), it’s loaded with light and sunny flavors. It pairs perfectly with fresh fish and shellfish. $60
Josh Cellars Reserve Bourbon Barrel Aged Zinfandel
This is a fresh and funky twist on a classic grape. Aged two months in charred bourbon barrels, it is unlike many other wines on the market. Full-bodied with a spiciness that lingers after each sip, it’s perfect for grilled foods or just sipping on a chilly evening. $20
Kenwood Vineyards Rosé of Pinot Noir
Fresh from the heart of Sonoma County, this Rosé is made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes that were picked in an early harvest in 2021. The resultant wine is smoothly subtle and an ideal bottle to crack open for an appetizer of mixed cheeses or to pair with a creamy pasta dish. $22