Top tips when buying wine for your Valentine - Plus 5 Bottle Shop suggestions

Scrambling for a last-minute Valentine’s Day surprise? Don’t worry—we’ve got you! Check out our top picks guaranteed to impress your special someone.

If you're planning to enjoy a glass of wine at home before heading out for dinner, why not go for something light and dry to set the mood? An aperitif wine is perfect for this—especially a refreshing Rosé! A pale Rosé paired with antipasti is the best way to start date night.

The Bottle Shop recommends – Domaine Tempier, Bandol Rosé

For an after-dinner nightcap, we recommend a rich, full-bodied red wine. After an evening of decadent dining, something with a bit more complexity (look for oak, vanilla, and leather notes) makes the perfect slow sipper, with rich flavors that linger on the palate. 

The Bottle Shop recommends – Cantina Diomede, Canace

Choosing a vintage wine from the year you met your partner is a sentimental and thoughtful way to celebrate your relationship. Our pick is an aged Barolo, known for its classic ‘tar and roses’ aroma, offering a nice balance of depth and softness.

The Bottle Shop recommends – Brezza, Barolo Cannubi

For first-time Valentines wanting to commemorate the day with wine, buying a bottle to enjoy now and a second to save for the future is a lovely gesture. Many wines can be enjoyed young but also have great aging potential. A good-quality Pinot Noir can be supple and juicy when drunk young, but with 5+ years in the bottle, it develops complex earthy, mushroom, and leather notes.

The Bottle Shop recommends – Danbury Ridge, Pinot Noir

We couldn’t talk Valentine’s Day wine without mentioning the ultimate fail-safe: Champagne! Whether buying for an occasional drinker or a seasoned wine collector, Champagne is a treat rarely bought for oneself and best enjoyed with company. You're guaranteed to make the day feel extra special.

The Bottle Shop recommends – Billecart-Salmon, Vintage Extra Brut