The long, cold days of January are in the rear-view mirror. Good riddance. I for one am enjoying the tease of spring and with it, Valentine’s Day. Being a new parent definitely means I have less time and energy for everything else, so this year my goal is understated elegance. Are you feeling it too?

Let’s say no to grand gestures and in lieu thereof embrace all the little things that give comfort and joy and come together to create that perfect evening. Starting things off with a bottle of bubbles is definitely the right move, but why not dress things up with a grower champagne that has all the presence of name-brand Krug in the glass and also a whole lot more heart and soul? Do you prefer a sophisticated red wine – perhaps to pair with that timeless steak dinner? Might I suggest a gorgeous round, rich and slightly spicy Chateauneuf du Pape from an estate with history dating back to 1560?

So what about those other little details? Candles are always the right answer. And music too. Ambiance is key, even if you, like me, find picking the right song for the mood next to impossible. I guarantee that someone out there has already cultivated the perfect understated, smooth, jazzy playlist for your evening. And then, of course, don’t forget dessert. I can’t overstate the simple pleasure of diving into a little box of exquisitely decorated chocolates from a local chocolatier. Does anyone not find joy in taking small bites out of three, four, five mysterious little explosions of deliciousness, sharing with your partner, and then poring over the included chart to figure out what that flavor was? You get the gist. Classic, understated, elegant. Let’s make it happen this year. I’m here to help however I can, starting with the two bottles below.

- Julia

NV Vincent Bliard Premier Cru Champagne 'Les Fondamentaux' $61

This is old-school grower Champagne from one of the earliest pioneers of organic winemaking in the region. It is wonderfully broad and biscuity on the nose, with unfolding notes of almond, apple, and lemon custard on the palate. Truly an excellent bottle of bubbles, and one that is sure to impress and delight on an occasion such as Valentine’s Day!

2020 Chateau La Nerthe Chateauneuf-du-Pape $74

A classic blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre from one of the oldest estates in Chateaneuf du Pape. Twelve months in French oak give this wine extra depth and richness. A swirl in the glass reveals marvelously complex aromas of stewed fruit, cloves, dried herbs, and black pepper, with a savory, meaty backbone. Steak has never met a better match.


Did one (or more) of these wines pique your interest? There are multiple ways to order with us! If you place your purchase through our online store, we’ll be happy to package and hold your bottles for you to pick up at your convenience. You can also email us and ask us to set aside any bottles you’re interested in picking up at a later date. We are able to ship to most states, so if you have any questions or would like to make special arrangements such as shipping, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at (919) 644-1243.