Valentine’s Day Champagne Choices

Special Day with a Special Person

Most people either love or hate Valentine’s Day. The lovers say, “Qui, qui. Bring It On!” while the haters say, “It’s nothing but a retailer’s scheme to have you part with your hard-earned money.”  Love or hate, it is a perfect excuse (if you need one) to savor a wonderful bottle of champagne with someone special to you.

Most Americans only drink champagne on four occasions-Christmas, New Year’s Eve, weddings and Valentine’s Day. So, if you’re in this crowd it’s time for a toast. It doesn’t matter if you sip a glass with your significant other or with a close friend.  Nothing says, “Special” like a bottle of bubbly.

So if you’re looking for great champagne to share, I’ve done a bit of the legwork for you. These are my “can’t-miss” selections. And if you plan to “pop the question”, you should kick it up a notch by selecting a vintage bottle.

 

NV Billecart Salmon Brut Rose, Champagne $40

Immediately, you’re hit with that classic brioche and vanilla on the nose. Then, it brings in fresh-picked orchard apples and pears.

 

Perrier-Jouët NV Grand Brut, Champagne $45

This starts with a floral nose and tastes of juicy apricot, white peach and Washington state cherry. Wonderful minerality.

 

2007 Louis Roederer Rosé Brut, Champagne $70

You’ll think I’st summer when you open the bottle. It’s filled with a flower blossom nose. Summery white peaches fill your mouth, followed by orange marmalade. It has a refreshing, lemon-lime finish that makes it ideal for the dinner table.

 

Pol Roger 1999 Extra Cuvee de Reserve Vintage Brut, Champagne $75

The beautiful ruby color is your hint of the strawberry flavor that dances on your tongue. This is a rich wine that will stand up to a dinner that includes a cheese course, beef entré and dessert.

Single or coupled, remember these song lyrics, “Love the one you’re with.”

 

Tags: Champagne, Holiday Wines