A Sommelier’s Guide to Picking the Perfect Wine for Your Date
Seeking to break the ice on a first date, or wanting to spend some quality time with your partner? Here's our guide on how to pick wine for a date.
I am a wine specialist, not a relationship expert, but for what it's worth, I think dating should be fun; an opportunity to connect with someone on a deeper level and the right wine can certainly help to elevate the experience. Whether you've booked a table at a fancy restaurant, planned a cozy night in, or have something more active in mind, there is a wine out there guaranteed to make your date's heart flutter and get their pulse racing.
Building the Tension
Bubbles immediately inject a touch of excitement into any date. The almost ritualistic process of peeling back the foil, and loosening the cage builds anticipation. As the cork is eased out, the tension escalates, rising to the crescendo of a loud pop.
Whilst Champagne may be the go-to choice for many, there are plenty of affordable alternatives available. For a similar taste profile, why not try a French Crémant, an Italian Franciacorta, or a traditional method sparkling wine from Carneros? For those who have a predilection for fruitier styles, a Prosecco can provide an excellent option.
Let's Get Physical
Are you more of an outdoorsy person, or planning an active date? Why not match the vibe with an electrifying, refreshing Riesling? An off-dry energetic Kabinett style from Germany's Mosel Valley can match your high-octane date. If you are surrounded by nature and enjoy bright, zesty flavors, and zingy acidity, then a grassy Sauvignon Blanc is also a great choice.
Sensual and Silky
Nothing quite hits the spot like Pinot Noir. The enticing perfume of rose petals and violets, coupled with succulent cherry fruit and exotic spice is certain to seduce you both. The silky tannins provide a sensual and gratifying experience, whilst the bright acidity makes you want to come back for more. Burgundy provides some of the most seductive and nuanced, albeit often expensive examples, whilst Oregon is an excellent source of world-class Pinot Noir from the United States.
Read more on Burgundy: Burgundy guide
TIP- Since Pinot Noir tends to be paler in color, it is less likely to leave you with black teeth.
Intellectual Stimulation
Seeking to connect on a deeper level? Whilst the wines of Burgundy are said to spark strong emotions, those hailing from Bordeaux are often said to provide more of an intellectual pursuit. The cerebral, complex wines located on either side of the Gironde Estuary, made from varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, demand an almost meditative level of contemplation to fully appreciate. California's Napa Valley offers a fine alternative for those seeking wines with greater opulence and weight. These may provide the ultimate wine for indulging in thoughtful conversation and looking to forge a deeper connection.
Movie Night
Planning a chilled night in? Break out the popcorn and crack open a bottle of Chardonnay for a near-organismic pairing. Rather than plumping for a fresh, mineral style of Chardonnay from France, opt instead for an oaked version from the USA.
Areas like the Napa Valley and Russian River Valley tend to produce richer styles. Alongside the grilled, toasty notes derived from oak maturation, some producers allow a process called malolactic conversion to occur, which creates dairy notes in the wine. These buttery tones are key to making this modern classic food-and-wine pairing a blockbuster hit.
You're so Sweet!
If you're planning to end the date on a sweet note, consider a dessert wine. Bear in mind that these wines are so rich and intense that even a small glass goes a long way. Try chilling the wine down to subdue its honeyed richness by serving it straight from the fridge. Let's face it nobody likes it when things get too cloying or sickly sweet!
Try a reserve ruby Port to accompany chocolate desserts. This rich, boozy style boasts flavors of dark chocolate and black jammy fruits, guaranteed to hit it off with a black forest gateau or a chocolate lava cake.
Ending things on a lighter note, finish with something fun and playful like a Moscato d'Asti from Northwest Italy. Bursting with tropical fruit and floral flavors, this sweet frothy fizz is perfect to sip by itself, or equally delicious paired with fruit-based desserts.
Was it a Match?
Selecting the right wine for your date shouldn't be overwhelming. Ultimately, whether you favor red, white, sparkling, or sweet, there's something for every palate and occasion. Taking the time to select a wine that complements your food, and both of your preferences, hopefully means that your date doesn't end up drunk, just intoxicated by you.
Sanya Abhay
