Valentine’s Wine Pairing Guide

Valentine’s Day invites a pause: a quiet table for two, the soft glow of candles, and a meal planned with care. At the centre of it all, the wine you choose sets the tone. The right bottle complements the food, enhances the atmosphere, and transforms a simple dinner into something special.

From expressive reds to crisp whites and sparkling wines, here’s how to select the best wines for your Valentine’s Day dinner.

Selecting Wines That Set the Scene

Every bottle of wine carries character. Some bring warmth, others brightness, and some bring excitement. Choosing wine for Valentine’s Day is about matching its personality to the kind of evening you want to share — refined, cosy, playful, laid back, or indulgent.

Practical considerations can make all the difference:

• Think about the wines you both enjoy: a familiar favourite can be just as enjoyable as discovering something new.
• Consider the dishes you’ll be serving: light seafood or vegetarian meals call for refreshing whites or aromatic reds, while rich meats pair well with fuller-bodied reds.
• The style of evening matters: sparkling wines are perfect for a celebratory start, whereas a smooth red suits a relaxed, intimate dinner.

Planning with these details ensures your wine selection enhances both the meal and the mood.

Red Wines for Rich Flavours and Intimate Moments

Pinot Noir (Dry)

Light to medium-bodied, Pinot Noir is silky and layered, offering notes of red berries, cherries, and subtle earthy undertones. Its gentle tannins suit dishes from mushroom risotto and roast chicken to grilled salmon. A clean, dry finish keeps delicate flavours balanced.

Cabernet Sauvignon (Dry)

Full-bodied and structured, Cabernet Sauvignon carries dark fruit flavours such as blackcurrant and plum, complemented by oak and spice. It pairs beautifully with richer dishes like slow-cooked beef, ribeye, or lamb, enhancing flavours and adding sophistication.

Lychgate Red (Medium-Dry)

Medium-bodied with red and black fruit, smoky undertones, and a finish of black peppercorn spice. Lychgate Red is versatile, pairing well with hearty meats, game, or robust vegetarian dishes. Allowing it to breathe brings out its full depth.

White Wines for Lighter Valentine’s Meals

Chardonnay (Dry)

Crisp and expressive, Chardonnay brings brightness with notes of apple, citrus, and a hint of oak. Its dry profile complements creamy pasta, seafood, or roasted poultry, providing elegance without overwhelming lighter dishes.

Riesling (Dry to Off-Dry)

Aromatic and lively, Riesling balances floral notes with vibrant acidity. Ranging from dry to off-dry, it pairs well with spiced cuisine, citrus-forward dishes, or herb-rich vegetarian mains, offering a fresh counterpoint to richer flavours.

Pinot Gris (Dry)

Floral and citrus-driven, Pinot Gris features honeyed pear, grapefruit, and acacia notes. Its clean, dry finish pairs beautifully with herby chicken skewers, seafood lasagne, or grilled goat’s cheese salad, making it versatile for Valentine’s dinners.

Muscaris (Off-Dry)

Lightly off-dry, with hints of orange blossom, honey, and lychee, Muscaris has a subtle spritz and gentle sweetness. It pairs well with spiced dishes, subtly sweet desserts, or can be enjoyed on its own, adding intrigue and balance to the meal.

Lychgate Bacchus (Dry)

Crisp and refreshing, Lychgate Bacchus offers lime, blackcurrant leaf, and cut grass on the nose, with citrus zest, ripe pear, and peach on the palate. Its vibrant acidity and dry finish make it an excellent companion for dishes like chicken Caesar salad, Thai fish cakes, or vegetable spring rolls.

Sparkling Wines for Celebration and Joy

Few things signal celebration like the gentle pop of a sparkling wine. English sparkling wines, crafted using the traditional method, are celebrated for their precision and finesse. Flavours range from crisp orchard fruits to brioche and nutty undertones, with a fine, lively mousse.

• Cuvée Blanc / White Sparkling: Fresh and crisp, with citrus and green apple notes. Ideal for toasting or pairing with light seafood and canapés.
• Cuvée Rosé: Delicate red fruit aromas, from strawberries to raspberries, bring elegance and charm. Perfect with desserts, fresh berries, or subtly spiced dishes.
• Cuvée Noir: Richer and more structured, with deeper red fruit and subtle spice. Works beautifully with roast poultry, salmon, or cheeses with more intensity, such as aged Gruyère.

Book a Tour and Tasting at Bolney Wine Estate

Make Valentine’s Day extra special with a visit to an English vineyard. A guided tour and tasting at Bolney Wine Estate offers a romantic escape amid the vines, combining beautiful scenery with the chance to explore the wines at their source. Discover how each bottle is crafted while enjoying a shared, intimate experience — an ideal way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Book A Tour