Whether you’re enjoying an intimate dinner with your sweetheart, or a night out with ladies, Valentine’s Day is a day for indulging in dessert.
Not sure what to pair with your favorite sweet treat? Here are some suggestions feature some of our favorite PNW wines!
Pinot Noir
What’s Valentine’s Day without a little chocolate? Enjoying some lava cake or decadent truffles? Pair it with Pinot Noir for a l’accord parfait. The soft, berry notes will be a wonderful contrast to the cocoa and bring out nuance in the flavors.
Carlos’ Picks
While Oregon is known for its stellar pinots, Washington is also creating great expressions of the grape. LaShellé’s Rattlesnake Ridge Pinot Noir is a perfect choice. For those celebrating Galentine’s Day – Lashelle is female-owned!
Though if you’re looking for something more “old world,” splurge on a pleasant Burgundy from the Cote de Beaune (I like Santenay).
Champagne
If you are ending your meal with a lemon tart or fresh fruits, opt for a glass of bubbles!
The minerality of the wine and sharpness of the bubbles will cut the acid in citrus for a pleasant balance and will complement the flavors of strawberries or apple.
Carlos’ Picks
We all know the classic grandes marques like Bollinger or Veuve Clicquot, but for an exceptional PNW option try Rocky Pond’s Domaine Chevalle. Made in the same style as classic champagne, it will add zest and a touch of fun to your meal. If you ask me though, you never need an excuse for champagne!
Port
Opting for a savory end to the meal? A classic pairing is port and aged cheese. Whether it’s a sharp, nutty cheddar or a ripe blue cheese, the sweetness of the port will create a wonderful balance on the palette.
Carlos’ Picks
The quintessential pairing is with English Stilton, but for Valentine’s Day opt for something softer like a Fourme d’Ambert. If you’re looking for a classic port, you can’t go wrong with Fonseca. For a more local pour, try Sparkman Cellar’s Hallelujah Port.
Malbec
Savoring an indulgent salted caramel treat? Grab a glass of sturdy Malbec. The dark fruit and earthy notes will cut through the sugar of the caramel and create a wonderful texture on the palette.
Carlos’ Picks
This varietal is becoming more common with each year. Argentina is biggest and best-known producer of Malbec, but’s it’s also increasingly grown in the US. It’s a versatile wine that can both with both your dessert as well as your main course. For an exceptional PNW Malbec, grab a bottle from Warr-King.
Do you have a favorite dessert and wine pairing? Share in the comments!
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