Cupid is drawing back his arrow and it’s almost time to shoot. What will be in your glass when his bow goes? Will it be Champagne? Belgian beer? A shot of agave? Let us know what you’re pouring February 14th and we’ll share with the Thirsty Girls.
Here are my suggestions for sexy wine jewels that shimmer and shine.
Sparkling Stars under $20
What would Valentine’s Day be without bubbles? A popping cork revs up the mood meter fast. We all know about true Champagne from the Champagne region of France, but there are many other options for fabulous fizz at bargain prices. Try sparklers from other regions of France and Italy as well as those hailing from Spain and the southern hemisphere.
Secco Rose Italian Bubbles $12 
A newly-launched company by the beautiful Italian wife of Washington vintner Charles Smith, Ginevra and her sister Olivia began a bubbly company in honor of their Italian homeland. With two bottlings under their Gucci belts, they’re rocking it! Go girls.
Toad Hollow Vineyards “Risque” Blanquette de Limoux, France $16
This frog can-can and does-does when it comes to unique sparkling wine. Though a California based winery, Toad Hollow is bringing in sparkles from one of my favorite hidden gem areas, Limoux (lee-moo) in the south of France.
Codorniu “Anna de Codorniu” Brut Rose, Cava, Spain $15
Made with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes in true methode tradicional style, this alluring garnet-hued bubbly is a stellar buy. It delivers twice the quality for the price leaving you more money for your Valentine’s Day dinner.
Vigne Regali “Principessa Perlante” Gavi, Italy $17
Lightly sparkling and flatteringly fruity, this unique bubbly made from the Cortese grape is a star to seek out. I recommend pouring a glass while you’re getting dressed and another three while you’re getting undressed.
Graham Beck Brut Rose, South Africa $16
From one of South Africa’s top producers, this Chardonnay/Pinot Noir based rose is a class act. Crisp and fresh, it’s a sipper with style.
Sweets for the sweet
These wines have varying levels of sweetness from delicately sweet to finger-lickingly sticky. Match up with a platter of dark chocolate, caramels with sea salt and chocolate covered strawberries then retire for the evening.
Pacific Rim Framboise $14
This raspberry wine that can be sipped alone or pour a dash in your glass of bubbly kir-style for lovely pink color and dash of sex appeal. Think about drizzling over vanilla bean ice cream for a visual and taste treat.
2008 Paringa Sparkling Shiraz, South Australia $17
Deep purple and bubbly, sparkling shiraz is an Aussie export that will put you down under. What more could you ask for with dark chocolate? Good night mate.
Gonzales Byass “Nectar” Pedro Ximenez Sherry, Jerez Spain $19
Pronounced Pedro himenez named for the same grape variety, this deeply rich and sweet wine is like drinking pure chocolate. Decadent with a capital D. (tip: serve well chilled)
2009 Weingut Robert Weil Riesling Tradition, Rheingau, Germany $28
With a whisper of sweetness, this elegant, sheer white is a stunner with lightly sweet fruit tarts or soft cheeses. Even if you think you don’t like Riesling, you will fall in love with this wine when Cupid’s arrow strikes.
http://www.weingut-robert-weil.com/index.php?id=1&L=2
Taylor Fladgate 20 Year Old Tawny Porto, Portugal $50
My favorite Ports are tawny. These wood aged beauties have an amber (or tawny) color and showcase spice, caramel and orange peel aromas. Paired with just the right amount of sweetness, the Taylor Fladgate is a classic sexy sipper.
