Ultimate Guide to Wine Pairings For Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in fine wine and decadent food. Whether planning a romantic dinner at home or a special night out, the right wine pairing can elevate your celebration. This guide offers the best wine pairings to complement a luxurious Valentine’s Day meal, from appetizers to desserts.

Perfect Wine Pairings for a Romantic Valentine’s Day

Pair your dishes with wines that enhance the flavors and set the mood to create an unforgettable evening.

1. Champagne & Oysters

Why it works: Champagne’s crisp acidity and effervescence enhance the delicate, briny sweetness of oysters, making for a luxurious and classic aphrodisiac pairing.
Try This: Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne with freshly shucked oysters and a mignonette sauce.

2. Pinot Noir & Filet Mignon

Why it works: The smooth tannins and elegant cherry and spice notes of Pinot Noir complement the filet mignon’s rich, buttery texture.
Try This: Willamette Valley Pinot Noir with a pan-seared filet mignon, garlic butter, and rosemary.

3. Rosé & Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Why it works: A dry rosé offers a balance of fruitiness and acidity that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of chocolate and the freshness of strawberries.
Try This: Whispering Angel Rosé with fresh strawberries dipped in dark chocolate.

4. Cabernet Sauvignon & Dark Chocolate

Why it works: The bold tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon contrast the bitterness of dark chocolate, creating an intense and indulgent pairing.
Try Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with a 70% dark chocolate bar.

5. Chardonnay & Lobster

Why it works: A buttery, oaked Chardonnay complements the sweet, rich flavors of lobster, making for a luxurious pairing.
Try This: Sonoma Chardonnay with butter-poached lobster and garlic lemon sauce.

6. Syrah & Rack of Lamb

Why it works: Syrah’s deep berry flavors and peppery spice enhance the herb-crusted richness of a rack of lamb.
Try This: French Syrah with rosemary and garlic-crusted rack of lamb.

7. Port & Raspberry Cheesecake

Why it works: The rich, fruity sweetness of Port pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy notes of raspberry cheesecake.
Try This: Tawny Port with a slice of homemade raspberry swirl cheesecake.

Local Feature: Best Wineries for Valentine’s Day in the Midwest

If you’re looking to pick up a special bottle or enjoy a romantic wine tasting, check out these local wine spots:

Grand Forks, ND: Red Trail Vineyard – North Dakota’s first winery, offering a cozy setting and locally made wines.
Detroit Lakes & Perham, MN: Bear Creek Winery – A scenic winery with hand-crafted wines perfect for a romantic getaway.
Fergus Falls, MN: Laughing Otter Winery– A boutique winery known for its unique fruit wines and warm ambiance.
Alexandria, MN: Carlos Creek Winery – A must-visit for Minnesota-grown wines and picturesque vineyards.
St. Cloud, MN: Millner Heritage Winery – A family-run winery with a charming European-inspired setting.
Winona, MN: Garvin Heights Vineyards – A hilltop winery with breathtaking views and exceptional local wines.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in exquisite wine and delicious food. Whether celebrating with Champagne and oysters or finishing the night with Port and dessert, these pairings will make your evening unforgettable.