Wine of the Month: Wines For Valentine's Day

Three Champagnes for Valentine's Day

If you take Valentine's Day seriously, it has to include Champagne for a loved one. Here are three that will make the right statement.

Romantic - Pink Fizz: Lanson Rosé NV (The Co-op)

Yes it's pink and it's got bubbles, but this is serious not frivolous; a redcurrant-infused, orchard-fruited, leesy-biscuity Champagne; pale pink with great structure and a fine mousse.

Drink as an aperitif or match with king prawn vol-au-vents.

Elegant - Castelnau Blanc de Blancs 2002 (Spirited Wine)

A vintage Champagne made from only white grapes, this is as elegant and deeply desirable as a middle-aged Bryan Ferry. Fine, delicate and ethereal with citrus fruits, yellow peach and brioche. Assured, adept and complex, it doesn't have to try, it just is.

Match with grilled lemon sole, beurre blanc and courgettes.

Classy - Taittinger Brut Réserve NV (Majestic, Waitrose, Tesco)

A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this is a classic Grande Marque Champagne; peach and acacia, fresh citrus, honey and brioche. Long, fresh finish.

Match with smoked salmon.

If you have to ask the price, then you are clearly not entering into the spirit of Valentine's Day, but details are:

Lanson Rosé NV (£37.99, reduced to £27.99 until Feb 27)
Champagne de Castelnau Blanc de Blancs 2002 (£40.80)
Taittinger Brut Réserve NV (£37)

Other related articles
Wine of the Month - February 2013
Wine of the Month - February 2012