Valentine’s Day has somehow become a collision of romance, chocolate, prix-fixe menus, and mild panic. But long before heart-shaped boxes and awkward reservations at 7:15 pm, this holiday had a much stranger and more interesting backstory.

A Brief and Slightly Unhinged History of Valentine’s Day

The origins of Valentine’s Day are tangled, like a box of old love letters tied with questionable ribbon.

Some trace it back to Lupercalia, an ancient Roman fertility festival involving feasting, matchmaking lotteries, and rituals best left in history books. Later, the Church attempted to clean things up by honoring St. Valentine, or possibly several Valentines, because history couldn’t settle on just one.

The most romantic legend? Valentine secretly married couples against the wishes of Emperor Claudius II, who believed single men made better soldiers. When Valentine was imprisoned, he allegedly sent a note signed, “From your Valentine.” That line stuck. The beheadings, thankfully, did not.

By the Middle Ages, Valentine’s Day was associated with courtly love, handwritten poetry, and exchanging small tokens of affection. Somewhere along the way, wine became involved, which may be the most important evolution of all.

Wine Pairings for Love in All Its Forms

Valentine’s Day wine should be romantic without trying too hard. No one wants a wine that feels like it’s wearing too much cologne.

Oysters and Sparkling Wine

Classic for a reason. Oysters have long been considered an aphrodisiac, likely because they pair so beautifully with sparkling wine.

In the glass: Champagne, Crémant, or a Brut sparkling wine
Why it sings: Bright acidity, saline minerality, and bubbles that keep things lively

If oysters feel intimidating, shrimp cocktail or scallop crudo works just as well. Romance should never feel like homework.

Steak, Mushroom Risotto, or Truffle Pasta

This is where Valentine’s dinners usually land, and honestly, it’s a good place to be.

What to drink: Pinot Noir, Nebbiolo, or a softer style of Syrah
Why it’s magic: These wines balance earthiness and elegance without overpowering the dish or the moment

Cabernet Sauvignon can work, but only if it’s not trying to dominate the conversation.

Chocolate and Berries

Chocolate is a trap for wine if you choose poorly. Dry reds rarely survive it.

Reach for: Ruby Port, Brachetto d’Acqui, Banyuls, or a lightly sweet Lambrusco
Why it fits: Sweetness meets sweetness, fruit stays vibrant, and no one feels betrayed

If you insist on dark chocolate, fortified wines are your safest love language.

The Cozy Night In

Sometimes Valentine’s Day is pajamas, takeout, and not leaving the couch.

Pour this: Off-dry Riesling, Beaujolais, or a chillable red
Why it makes sense: Low pressure, high comfort, and endlessly food-friendly

This is the wine equivalent of saying, “I like you exactly as you are.”

A Valentine’s Day Cocktail: Love Letters at Dusk

This cocktail is floral, lightly bitter, gently sweet, and just complex enough to feel intentional without being overwrought.

Final Thoughts on Love, Wine, and Not Overthinking It

Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be thoughtful. A good bottle of wine, a shared meal, and a moment of genuine connection will always outshine fixed menus and forced romance.

Whether you’re celebrating decades together, a brand-new spark, or simply your love of good food and drink, raise a glass to love in all its forms.

Because at the end of the day, wine has always been about bringing people closer. And if that isn’t romantic, nothing is. 🍷❤️

Cover Photo by Katerina Holmes on Pexels.com