I’ve been contemplating all week what to drink for Valentine’s Day this year. Sure, sure, typically most people go to their favorite retailers in search of a sparkler or some sort, but if that’s not your bag (which, typically, bubbly is not mine) then where to turn? A lush, rich red wine? A decadent, buttery, full-bodied white? A dry, Champagne-esque bière brut á-la-DeuS? Decisions, decisions!

Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, most people have the opportunity to make two beverage choices (I know I will): one for brunch (a necessity for ANY Sunday holiday) and one for dinner. After much deliberation, here’s what I have planned for the big day:

Brunch – While I may not be a huge sparkling wine fan, I will rarely turn down a delicious brunch cocktail, and on the top of my list are Bellinis. When made with freshly made peach purée, there’s truly nothing like it. Add to the purée a small handful of raspberries and you have a brilliant (and unbelievably festive) pink hue to dress-up the drink. But definitely think Cava or the more traditional Prosecco on this one; Champagne’s a bit too heavy and rich for the light, fruity flavor of the Bellini.

Dinner – For my special dinner with my special someone, I’m going to bring a bottle of Speri 2001 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico from my cellar to the restaurant. My honey doesn’t really like wines that are tannic and drying or light on flavor, so with a little bit of time and the naturally ripe and concentrated flavors of Amarone, this should be agreeable to us both. And, it’ll go perfectly with the hearty Northern Italian fare on the menu.

And, most importantly, what about dessert? Well, with their vibrant red colors and immensely concentrated and divinely decadent flavors, I have to have some red-fruit Lambic on Valentine’s day. It’s definitely a personal necessity. So, to end our special night this year, I’ll have a bottle of Lindemans Framboise at home, with some chocolate-covered strawberries, waiting to be consumed. Pretty good plan, huh?

So, what are your plans for V-day this year? Have something special in mind, or are you going to celebrate having some time all to yourself? What will you do this year to spread the love?

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