It has been a cold, wet, and snowy winter. Is there a better way to spend this Valentine’s Day than snuggled up in front of a roaring fire with your beloved? How about adding a bottle of wine to the mix? Here are my picks for a romantic evening at home.

Kris Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie, Italy 2011 $12.99–

Love Pinot Grigio? This Kris is always a favorite. Crisp and refreshing with tangerine, citrus, and stone fruits, it’s a terrific aperitif. It also pairs well with such aphrodisiacs as oysters, avocado salad, and asparagus.

Chateau De Taste Cotes de Borg, France 2009 $14.99 –

Taking advantage of all the classic Bordeaux varieties, Chateau de Taste, with its charming golden heart on the label, is just as tasty and pretty as it puts on. Merlot driven, it is elegant and rich with red fruits and nice acidity. 2009 is a classic vintage, and this wine shows it, but break out the decanter or aerator if you are going to drink this PYT this Valentine’s day.

Villa Chambre D’Amour Sweet White Blend Gascogne-Armagnac, France 2011 $9.99–

Tropical fruits and lovely floral notes are found on the nose of this late-harvest white blend. Literally meaning “Room of Love,” the Chambre D’Amour is unlike any French wine I have ever had. A bit lighter than a Sauterne, the traditional French sweetie, this wine exhibits mango, pineapple, and citrus, making it a great complement to spicy Asian cuisine or fruit tarts and light desserts.

The Chocolate Box Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia $19.99–

More than not, men love red wine, and women love chocolate. The brilliant folks at Rocland Estates in Australia made a decadent Shiraz with rich, dark chocolate notes to please both palates. Other favorite flavors from the classic heart-shaped box are here too, with hints of cherry, blackberry, and vanilla rounding out the finish. It is a perfect pairing with prime rib, or of course, chocolate.

Whether you are giving it as a gift or pairing it with a homemade meal, these wines will warm your loved ones hearts, and hopefully, quicken their pulses.

Enjoy!

– Jennifer Laurie