Valentine’s Varieties

Wine Spotlight from New Braunfels Monthly

February 2019

By: Connor Brown

              

Valentine’ Day is right around the corner, and most of us are aware of the stress that can come with it. Often times, it seems that we’re completely on our own trying to make each year better than the last. Fortunately, its very easy to rely on a solid bottle of wine to be your companion for a successful Valentine’s Day. Whether dessert or dinner is the specialty, a good bottle of wine will take the dish to another level. And the least I can do, is recommend a couple of bottles that reserve a special place in my heart for this Valentine’s Day. 

               

Out of Fredericksburg, Texas, Barons Creek Vineyards makes some of the finest wine known to south Texas. In particular, their Merlot is an easy wine to consider as its complex yet neutral flavor profile compliments any hearty meal. It’s full body and rich ripe cherry notes cascade beautifully into a deep smoky vanilla finish, to provide support to both smooth and savory flavors. This wine also contrasts beautifully with dessert and other sweet treats, so experiment and enjoy!

For a lighter meal with chicken or fish as its focal
point, a dry white wine is ideal. In many occurrences, the zesty and refreshing white wine is paired with lighter fare to bring out the softer, and more delicate flavors of a dish. Try some crisp whites out of Texas like the Fall Creek Sauvignon Blanc. Notes of citrus and mint awaken the palate to form a lasting and rich fruity yet refreshing finish, not only pairing well with a dish, but complimenting it as well.

Sweet treats are best enjoyed with a sweetheart. And with everything that goes into this special day, some slack is always welcome. Don’t sweat it with the chocolate covered strawberries, when you can experience Los Pinos Ranch Besitos De Chocolate. From Pittsburg, Texas, this Lenoir based sweet red wine is literally dessert in a bottle with spot-on notes of chocolate and strawberry and just a hint of alcohol on the finish. Though its one of the most interesting wines to come through The Grapevine, it’s quite delicious and does a solid job of covering dessert for any occasion. 

So here’s to a hopefully less stressful and more successful Valentines Day, with hopes that these Texas wines can help elevate your palate and upgrade your experience on this holiday. Happy Valentine’s Day!