“Either give me more wine or leave me alone.”― Rumi

While more wine is always a good idea, being by yourself is perfectly delightful too. Valentine’s Day is about celebrating self-love and platonic love as much as it’s about romantic love. Love—in all its myriad forms, should be celebrated, on Valentine’s Day and every day. And we believe if there’s one holiday that demands a special glass of vino—it is Valentine’s Day.

However, we should dispel the notion that Valentine’s Day wines have to burn a deep hole in your pocket. These spectacular PNW wines are ambrosial and not too expensive. Whether you plan to pop the question or enjoy an intimate dinner with your valentine, here are some great wines to go with the occasion. V-day is generally associated with red and pink wines, but we have gone off the beaten path and included some delicious whites too. So set the mood with shimmering candles and fresh flowers and sip the night away with these special wines…

What to choose if things are getting *serious*:

Intrinsic Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.99)

A deep, savory red for V-day is a no-brainer. This hearty wine has a nuanced smoky berry flavor and a smooth earthy finish. It is a bit dry on the palate but pairs wonderfully with for rich, spicy stews and heartwarming meaty dishes.

The winemaker says: “The flavors are layered with tonnes of blueberry jam, pomegranate, and chocolate. The texture is rustic, yet silky, with unique savory and inviting finish.” – Juan Munoz-Oca, Winemaker

Food pairing: Grilled meats such as lamb, beef and pork with seared vegetables

Dessert: Chocolate is a natural pairing with this deep, layered wine – serve with dark chocolate covered strawberries or chocolate truffles

For Galentine’s Day! (celebrating with your girl friends):

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2018 Rosé ($11.49)

It’s a myth that delicious rosé wines are just for the summer. A glass of pink fizz will be a great accompaniment to your girl’s celebration, whether it’s a pajama party or a boozy brunch. This luscious wine will go perfectly with a giggly, bonding session with your best girlfriends.

The winemaker says: “The Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Rosé is a dry elegant style rosé with a beautiful light pale pink color. The fresh and lively wine offers bright aromas of watermelon and raspberry with flavors of wild strawberry, citrus zest, and hints of melon. It is soft on the palate with a long crisp finish.” – Bob Bertheau, Winemaker

Food pairing: Best enjoyed with a cheese plate as an aperitif, and with light pasta dishes for the main course

Dessert pairing: A great wine to pair with many desserts – enjoy with lemon bars or shortbread with strawberries

For that 5-star dinner you’re cooking up at home:

Erath Oregon Pinot Gris ($14.99)

If you’re thinking of rustling up a decadent dinner for that special someone or for yourself, here’s the perfect wine to go with it. While winters are usually associated with red wine, this Pinot Gris has the depth and complexity for colder climes. Given the snowy weather, this is a rich, full-bodied complex wine to savor as you’re warming up indoors. This fruit-forward wine is versatile and goes exceptionally well with Thai food and Indian food.

The winemaker says: “Fragrant white flowers, nectarine, melons, with a hint of Key lime lay the aromatic path to this tropical paradise. Pleasing plushness bolstered by engaging natural acidity to combine to support lush flavors of banana, melon, and apricot finishing on a long, clean and clear high note.” – Gary Horner, Winemaker

Food pairing: Seafood – especially shellfish like oysters or trout

Dessert: Pair this dry white with a lighter dessert such as mascarpone stuffed crepes or crème Brulee

If there’s something to celebrate (whether it’s an anniversary or being single and loving yourself!):

14 Hands Brut Rosé  ($12.95)

This rosé sparkler a great bottle to pop before your home-cooked feast, or as a pre-dinner treat before you head out to town. This elegant pink wine goes amazingly well with oysters and dark chocolate.

The winemaker says: “This bright coral colored sparkling rosé has aromas of tart cherries and strawberry rhubarb pie. Notes of green papaya and young red fruit mesh with fluffy tannins and creamy texture leading to a bright refreshing finish of mixed berries” – Keith Kenison, Winemaker

Food pairing: Roast turkey salmon with cherry based chutney, fresh melon salad

Dessert: Rhubarb and Raspberry Crostata (baked tart or pie) to bring out the tart rhubarb flavor and berry profiles in the wine.

When it’s just a first date but you still want to impress:

MERF 2017 Chardonnay ($12.49)

This is the perfect bottle of winter white, with lovely aromas of apples and stone-fruit. While its bright acidic notes go well with cheeses and meat dishes, it is truly spectacular when combined with rich, decadent desserts. We tried this chardonnay with Tres Leches cake, and it was a winning combination.

The winemaker says: “The 2017 Chardonnay is smooth, rich and balanced. With flavors of bright apple, pear, tropical fruit with delightful floral and creamy notes integrated with a nice rich mouthfeel and hints of oak in the nose and finish.” – David “Merf” Merfeld, Winemaker

Food pairing: Lemon chicken with capers and spring veggies

Dessert: Salted Carmel Ice Cream is an easy yet elegant dessert pairing with this rich Chardonnay.