That's right. Once again it's time for that totally useless holiday, Valentine's Day. In my opinion, this holiday was created by women simply as a way to get yet another gift. That being said, it is a day for romance, love, passion, blah blah blah. Two items immediately come to my mind when you mention romance and Valentine's Day - wine and chocolate. In fact, if you pair them correctly, you may very well have some sexy time after dinner...can you hear the Barry White music yet? But, before you start spraying yourself down in perfume and cologne, and slipping on your sexy pants, there are some things to consider.
White chocolate tends to be more mellow and buttery in flavor, making it an ideal candidate for a Spanish Sherry, a Moscato d'Asti from Italy’s Piedmont region, or an Orange Muscat. The Sherry and Moscato d’Asti will pick up the creaminess of the chocolates and the Orange Muscat will pick up any fruit tones present. Another drink that I would recommend with white chocolate is some good ol' relaiable champagne. Also, Chardonnay and Sauv Blanc.
Pinot Noir or a lighter-bodied Merlot will complement a bar of milk chocolate, a creamy chocolate mousse or chocolate accented cheesecake. Rieslings, Muscats or dessert wines tend to hold up well to mild milk chocolates. In additiona to Pinot and Merlot, try some Shiraz and Malbec. In my opinion, Port wine and milk chocolate is perhaps the best food & wine pairing you could ever wish for. Don't believe me? Just give it a shot...you will once again hear Barry White music. Also
Dark or bittersweet chocolates need a wine that offers a bold, powerful flavor itself. Cabs and Zinfandels would be the best bet for dark chocolate match. A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Zinfandel will more than fill your chocolate pairing expectations. Also feel free to try some of these full-bodied beauties: Rioja, Chianti, Sangiovese, Vinho Tinto. I once had a Rioja with some dark chocolate, and I truly enjoyed it.
That's all for now...so get busy being romantic. And, if you don't have anyone to be romantic with, go ahead and try some of these pairings anyway. At least you'll be ahead of the game when you do have a Valentine. I'm gonna try some with the Mrs. this weekend and I'll let you know how I make out (wink, wink).
3 comments:
I don't think you can beat port and chocolate. Maybe port and chocolate covered strawberries or dried fruits.
Long time fan of dark chocolate and big reds, I'm still laughing about the advice to wait for your sexy pants.
Thank you, Farley. I'm here all week.
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