Wine and chocolate are already amazing on their own, but when you enjoy them together, it’s even better. But you can’t just open any bottle and shove a Hershey’s bar in your mouth to get the best experience, it’s all about finding the ideal match. Sommelier Jeff Porter suggests keeping the sweetness level of the wine somewhat in line with the dessert and these are some wines he recommends to go with your Valentine’s Day chocolates.

• Zenato Cormí Merlot Corvina delle Venezie IGT 2013 – This full-bodied red has notes of cherries and blackberries and pairs best with dark or milk chocolate. Plus, the label has heart on it, so it’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.
• Mumm Napa Brut Rosé – Pair this pink bubbly with milk chocolate-covered strawberries to match its soft texture and bold fruit flavors.
• The Federalist Bourbon Barrel-Aged Zinfandel – The strong fruit flavors and caramel smokiness in this red wine will work best with dark chocolate covered caramel with sea salt.
• Marques de Murrieta Capellanía White Reserva 2014 – This white wine from Spain has a “mouth-coating richness” which pairs well with white chocolate-dipped oranges.
• Santa Julia Tintillo 2018 – Enjoy this Argentinian red wine slightly chilled with a creamy chocolate mousse for the ideal Valentine’s Day combo.
• Rocca di Montemassi Renaissance Rosé 2017 – Sipping on this pink wine from Tuscany with “ripe fruit flavors and fresh floral aromas” is even better when you nibble on semi-sweet chocolate infused with chili pepper.
• BERA Brachetto Piemonte DOC 2016 – No matter who you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with, this semi-sparkling red with tastes of sweet plums and red cherries is sure to please. But snack on some chocolate peanut butter fudge with it to really bring out the flavors of both.
• Kendall-Jackson 2017 Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay – This buttery California white is “exceptionally food-friendly” but if you can pair it with chocolate-covered popcorn balls, that’s the ideal match.
• And if you’re more of a beer drinker: Sapporo Premium Black – Not everyone is into the vino, so if you or your Valentine prefer a dark brew, try this bold, crisp brew that “drinks light” and tastes great with chocolate hazelnut truffles.

Source: Thrillist