Valentine’s Day is all about indulgence, and nothing says romance like a glass of wine paired with rich chocolate. Choosing the right wine and chocolate combination is essential. It can enhance flavors, balance sweetness, and create a unique tasting experience.
Whether you are planning a date night, a cozy evening at home, or need a Valentine’s Day gift, we can help.
From bold reds to crisp whites, these five perfect wine and chocolate pairings will take your Valentine’s experience to the next level. And, of course, don’t forget to keep your wine chilled at the perfect serving temperature with VoChill’s wine glass chiller.
1. Cabernet Sauvignon & Dark Chocolate (70% Cocoa or Higher)
- Why it Works: The bold tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon cut through the bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a smooth and balanced taste.
- Perfect for: Red wine drinkers who enjoy deep, complex flavors.
- Pro Tip: Room temperature reds can sometimes taste overpowering. For the best experience, slightly chill your bottle of wine using a wine glass chiller like VoChill to bring out the bold fruit flavors.
Pair with: Dark chocolate truffles, espresso-infused chocolate, or chocolate-covered almonds.
Related Read: Should Red Wine Be Chilled?
2. Pinot Noir & Milk Chocolate
- Why it Works: The smooth tannins and berry flavors of Pinot Noir go well with the creamy sweetness of milk chocolate. This creates a silky and balanced pairing.
- Perfect for: A cozy, romantic wine and chocolate night.
- Pro Tip: Red wines like Pinot Noir taste best when slightly cool (around 55°F).
Pair with: Chocolate-covered strawberries, hazelnut chocolate, or classic milk chocolate bars.
3. Rosé & White Chocolate
- Why it Works: The bright acidity of Rosé balances the rich butteriness of white chocolate. This keeps it from being too sweet.
- Perfect for: A fun, flirty day wine to enjoy during a Galentine’s brunch or a sunny afternoon.
- Pro Tip: Rosé is best served chilled, so make sure to keep your wine cool by using a wine glass chiller instead of ice, which can dilute the flavors.
Pair with: Raspberry-filled white chocolate, coconut truffles, or strawberries and cream.
4. Merlot & Chocolate-Covered Cherries
- Why it Works: Merlot has smooth tannins and ripe cherry flavors. These match the fruitiness of chocolate-covered cherries. This makes for a sweet and indulgent pairing.
- Perfect for: Food and wine lovers who enjoy juicy, fruit-forward flavors.
- Pro Tip: Serving temperature matters! Keep your bottle of wine slightly chilled for the best balance of acidity and richness.
Pair with: Cherry cordials, red velvet cake, or chocolate-covered berries.
5. Champagne & Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt
- Why it Works: The bubbles in Champagne contrast with the richness of dark chocolate, while sea salt enhances the wine’s crisp minerality.
- Perfect for: A luxurious Valentine’s toast.
- Pro Tip: Always serve champagne ice-cold—use VoChill to keep your glass of wine chilled longer without dilution.
Pair with: Salted dark chocolate bars, chocolate-covered pretzels, or caramel-filled truffles.
Final Tips for the Perfect Wine & Chocolate Night
- Choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor experience.
- Keep your wine at the perfect serving temperature—VoChill ensures your last sip is just as cool as the first.
- Make it special. Create a cozy atmosphere with candles and soft music. Include a special Valentine’s Day wine pairing menu.
Which wine and chocolate pairing are you most excited to try?