Roses, candy fine, but consider wine

Each year on Feb. 14 people around the world celebrate Valentine’s Day.

In the United States this celebration typically is toasted with candy, flowers, jewelry and other gifts. Each year my husband’s romantic gesture is to give me a thoughtout, well-planned bottle of wine. After many years together he knows I don’t eat candy, he gives me flowers throughout the year and I have enough jewelry. But I never have enough wine. I am sure he has already selected my gift with days to spare, but for the rest of you still seeking the perfect gift, I hope these ideas help.

There are many bottles sitting on retail shelves or patiently waiting to be noticed on wine lists. Make the choice personal by selecting a vintage port or Champagne based on special dates, ranging from the year a person was born, life-changing events (anniversary, birth of a child) or even the year you met your valentine. If you are dining out, check the wine list before you go and call ahead to confirm the bottle you want is in stock.

If your budget or time doesn’t allow for a night out, simply putting thought into the gift can make it just as sentimental. For example, a bottle from a vineyard you visited together, or one you want to visit together, or something from a winery with a romantic history. Obviously, the ultimate gift idea would be a bottle of wine with a note promising a romantic getaway to the winery or the region.

THE VALUE

2013 Los Vascos Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile (about $14 retail)

THE SPLURGE

2012 Stasis Pinot Noir, California (about $45 retail)

For some lovebirds the best gifts are something sweet and something that sparkles. Many times you may have the chocolates and flowers in place but just need another personal touch. A sweet, sparkling wine is a great addition.

THE VALUE

NV Stella Rosa Black, Italy (about $15 retail)

THE SPLURGE

NV Scharffenberger Cellars Sparkling Rose, California (about $25 retail)

There is just something about rose wines that make them an ideal fit for romance. I prefer the dry styles of rose because they fall somewhere between white and red wines. The aromas are almost always fresh, enticing strawberry and cherry, and the flavors are crisp and refreshing, with a light, zesty acidity. Unlike your valentine, rose wines are not looking for a long-term relationship — it’s best to drink them within 3 months of purchase.

THE VALUE

NV ROSA Rose, Argentina (about $18 retail)

THE SPLURGE

2013 Chateau de Montifaud Pineau Rose, France (about $ 35 retail)