Wine Pairing for At-Home Date Night: 5 Romantic Menus

Create an Unforgettable Valentine's Day at Home

Skip the crowded restaurants, overpriced prix fixe menus, and rushed service this Valentine's Day. The most romantic dinner is the one you create together at home—where you control the ambiance, the timing, and most importantly, the wine.

We've created 5 complete romantic dinner menus, each with detailed wine pairings that elevate every course. From classic Italian to modern vegetarian, from seafood elegance to steakhouse indulgence, these menus work for every taste and skill level. Each includes specific wine recommendations with direct links to purchase, plus pairing notes to help you understand why each combination works.

Menu 1: Classic Italian Romance

The Vibe: Timeless elegance, candlelit intimacy, Lady and the Tramp vibes

Aperitivo & Appetizer

Dish: Prosciutto-wrapped figs with burrata, arugula, and balsamic reduction

Wine Pairing: NV Paul Buisse Crémant de Loire Rosé Sparkling, Loire Valley, France - $23.99

Why It Works: The delicate bubbles and red fruit notes of this Crémant de Loire complement the creamy burrata while cutting through the richness of prosciutto. The slight rosé character echoes the sweetness of figs without overwhelming them. Vegan-friendly and elegant—the perfect way to start your evening.

First Course

Dish: Homemade butternut squash ravioli with brown butter sage sauce

Wine Pairing: 2022 House of Brown Chardonnay, Lodi, California - $25.00

Why It Works: This sustainably grown Chardonnay offers tropical fruit and stone fruit notes with just enough oak to complement the brown butter sauce. The wine's crisp acidity balances the richness of the pasta while its medium body matches the delicate ravioli. From the Brown family's accessible label where "everyone is welcome."

Main Course

Dish: Osso buco with saffron risotto and gremolata

Wine Pairing: 2021 Bindi IL Colli Achille IGT Toscana Rosso, Italy - $21.00

Why It Works: This biodynamic Super Tuscan blend of Sangiovese and Merlot has the structure to stand up to braised veal shanks while its bright acidity cuts through the richness of bone marrow. The wine's earthy notes complement the saffron, and its medium tannins won't overpower the delicate risotto. Sustainably farmed from a female-owned estate.

Dessert

Dish: Tiramisu with espresso and dark chocolate shavings

Wine Pairing: NV Cocchi Brachetto d'Acqui Sweet Sparkling Wine, Piedmont, Italy - $22.00

Why It Works: This lightly sweet, low-alcohol sparkling red wine is the perfect dessert pairing. Its strawberry and rose petal notes complement the coffee and cocoa in tiramisu without competing. The gentle bubbles cleanse the palate between bites of this rich dessert.

Total Wine Investment: $92.98 for 4 bottles

Menu 2: Seafood Elegance

The Vibe: Coastal sophistication, light and fresh, refined simplicity

Aperitivo

Dish: Oysters on the half shell with mignonette and lemon

Wine Pairing: NV Villiera Tradition Brut Sparkling, Stellenbosch, South Africa - $27.00

Why It Works: This biodynamic Cap Classique (South African sparkling wine made in the Champagne method) has the crisp acidity and minerality that oysters demand. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blend with fine bubbles that enhance the briny sweetness of fresh oysters. IPW-certified sustainable from a female co-owned estate.

First Course

Dish: Seared scallops with cauliflower purée and crispy pancetta

Wine Pairing: 2019 Domaine Mosnier Petit Chablis, Burgundy, France - $36.50

Why It Works: Chablis is the classic pairing for scallops—its steely minerality and bright acidity complement the sweet, delicate scallops without overwhelming them. The wine's lean profile balances the richness of cauliflower purée, while its citrus notes echo the lemon you'll squeeze over the dish. From a family-owned, female winemaker-led estate.

Main Course

Dish: Pan-roasted halibut with lemon beurre blanc, asparagus, and fingerling potatoes

Wine Pairing: 2020 Garenne Sancerre Rouge, Loire Valley, France - $37.99

Why It Works: While white wine is traditional with fish, this elegant Pinot Noir from Sancerre has the delicacy to pair beautifully with halibut. Its light body, bright acidity, and red fruit notes complement the lemon beurre blanc, while its earthy undertones match the asparagus. Sustainably farmed from a female co-owned, family estate.

Dessert

Dish: Lemon panna cotta with fresh berries

Wine Pairing: NV Flare Sparkling Moscato, Valencia, Spain - $18.00

Why It Works: This lightly sweet, low-alcohol sparkling Moscato has floral and citrus notes that complement lemon panna cotta perfectly. The gentle sweetness balances the dessert's tang, while fresh berry flavors in the wine echo the fresh berries on top. Sustainably farmed and perfect for ending a seafood-focused meal.

Total Wine Investment: $119.49 for 4 bottles

Menu 3: Steakhouse at Home

The Vibe: Bold, indulgent, classic American romance

Aperitivo

Dish: Shrimp cocktail with horseradish cocktail sauce

Wine Pairing: NV François Montand Blanc de Blancs Brut, Jura, France - $22.00

Why It Works: This Chardonnay-based sparkling wine has the acidity to cut through cocktail sauce while its citrus notes complement the shrimp. The bubbles cleanse your palate and prepare it for the rich meal ahead.

First Course

Dish: Wedge salad with blue cheese dressing, bacon, and tomatoes

Wine Pairing: 2022 MNW "Love Drunk" Willamette Valley Rosé - $21.00

Why It Works: This dry rosé from Maison Noir Wines has the acidity to balance creamy blue cheese dressing while its red fruit notes complement the tomatoes. The wine's refreshing character prepares your palate for the rich steak to come.

Main Course

Dish: Dry-aged ribeye with compound butter, loaded baked potato, and creamed spinach

Wine Pairing: 2018 Phil Long Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Sonoma County - $28.99

Why It Works: This Black-owned Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma has the bold tannins and structure to stand up to a dry-aged ribeye. Blackberry and cassis flavors complement the char on the steak, while vanilla and mocha notes from oak aging echo the compound butter. The wine's full body matches the richness of loaded potato and creamed spinach.

Dessert

Dish: Chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream

Wine Pairing: NV Imperial 202 Dolce Rosé Sparkling, Mendoza, Argentina - $24.00

Why It Works: This semi-sweet sparkling rosé made from Malbec has the sweetness to pair with chocolate while its bubbles cut through the richness of lava cake. Red fruit notes complement the chocolate, and the wine's slight sweetness balances the vanilla ice cream. From a minority-owned importer.

Total Wine Investment: $95.99 for 4 bottles

Menu 4: Vegetarian Elegance

The Vibe: Modern, sophisticated, plant-forward luxury

Aperitivo

Dish: Whipped ricotta crostini with roasted grapes, thyme, and honey

Wine Pairing: NV Figo Prosecco DOC Extra Dry, Treviso, Italy - $17.00

Why It Works: This female-owned Prosecco has a touch of sweetness that complements honey-drizzled crostini while its bubbles cut through creamy ricotta. The wine's floral notes echo the thyme, and its light body won't overwhelm delicate roasted grapes.

First Course

Dish: Roasted beet salad with goat cheese, candied walnuts, and citrus vinaigrette

Wine Pairing: 2022 Pemper Pinot Noir Rosé, Marlborough, New Zealand - $24.50

Why It Works: This dry rosé from female winemaker Eva Pemper has earthy notes that complement roasted beets while its bright acidity balances creamy goat cheese. Citrus notes in the wine echo the vinaigrette, and its medium body matches the richness of candied walnuts. Sustainably farmed.

Main Course

Dish: Wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil, parmesan, and microgreens

Wine Pairing: 2022 Pemper Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand - $29.99

Why It Works: This elegant Pinot Noir from female winemaker Eva Pemper has earthy, mushroom notes that mirror the wild mushrooms in the risotto. Its silky texture matches the creamy risotto, while bright acidity cuts through the richness of parmesan and truffle oil. Sustainably farmed from a woman-owned winery.

Dessert

Dish: Dark chocolate mousse with raspberry coulis and fresh mint

Wine Pairing: NV The Black Chook Sparkling Shiraz, McLaren Vale, South Australia - $24.39

Why It Works: This sparkling Shiraz from female winemaker has dark fruit flavors that complement dark chocolate while its bubbles lighten the richness of mousse. Berry notes echo the raspberry coulis, and the wine's slight sweetness balances dark chocolate's bitterness.

Total Wine Investment: $95.88 for 4 bottles

Menu 5: French Bistro Romance

The Vibe: Parisian charm, rustic elegance, cozy sophistication

Aperitivo

Dish: French onion soup with gruyère crouton

Wine Pairing: 2020 Domaine JB Cavalier Rouge, Languedoc, France - $18.50

Why It Works: This biodynamic red blend from a female winemaker has earthy notes that complement caramelized onions while its medium body matches the richness of melted gruyère. The wine's Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah blend has enough structure for the savory soup without overwhelming it.

First Course

Dish: Salade Lyonnaise (frisée with lardons, poached egg, and Dijon vinaigrette)

Wine Pairing: 2021 Aslina Chardonnay, Stellenbosch, South Africa - $24.00

Why It Works: From Ntsiki Biyela, South Africa's first Black woman winemaker, this Chardonnay has the acidity to cut through a rich poached egg while its tropical fruit notes balance the Dijon vinaigrette. The wine's creamy texture complements the egg yolk, and its medium body matches the bacon lardons. IPW-certified sustainable.

Main Course

Dish: Coq au vin with pearl onions, mushrooms, and crusty bread

Wine Pairing: 2021 Chosen Family Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Oregon - $39.00

Why It Works: This Black-owned Pinot Noir from Oregon has the elegance of Burgundy (the traditional wine for coq au vin) with bright acidity, earthy mushroom notes, and red fruit flavors. Its medium body and silky tannins complement the braised chicken without overwhelming it, while its structure stands up to the rich wine-based sauce.

Dessert

Dish: Crème brûlée with fresh berries

Wine Pairing: NV Jules Lorén Blanc de Blanc Brut Cuvée Réserve, France - $13.00

Why It Works: This affordable French sparkling wine has the acidity to cut through the richness of crème brûlée while its bubbles cleanse the palate between spoonfuls. The wine's citrus notes complement fresh berries, and its dry profile balances the dessert's sweetness without competing.

Total Wine Investment: $94.50 for 4 bottles

Setting the Scene: Beyond the Food & Wine

Ambiance Essentials

• Dim the lights and use candles (lots of them)
• Create a playlist of romantic music (jazz, classical, or your favorite love songs)
• Set the table with your best dishes and linens
• Put phones away—this is about connection
• Consider flowers or a simple centerpiece

Timing Tips

• Prep as much as possible in advance
• Don't attempt complicated dishes you've never made
• Build in time to cook together—it's part of the romance
• Allow 30-45 minutes between courses to savor the wine and conversation
• Total dinner time: 2.5-3 hours for a leisurely, romantic pace

Wine Service Tips

• Chill sparkling wines and whites for 2-3 hours before serving
• Open red wines 30-60 minutes before serving to let them breathe
• Use proper glassware if you have it (but don't stress if you don't)
• Pour modest amounts—you want to enjoy multiple courses
• Keep a pitcher of water on the table

Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Want to create a romantic dinner without breaking the bank? Here are some swaps:

Sparkling Wine: NV Jules Lorén Blanc de Blanc Brut - $13.00 (works for any menu)

White Wine: 2022 Alexis George Darémore Chardonnay, Central Coast - $19.49 (Black-owned)

Red Wine: 2021 Trim Cabernet Sauvignon Red Blend, Napa - $15.99 (Female winemaker)

Dessert Wine: NV Flare Sparkling Moscato - $18.00 (Sustainable)

Budget Menu Total: $66.48 for 4 bottles

Make It Your Own

These menus are starting points—feel free to adapt based on:

• Your cooking skill level
• Dietary preferences or restrictions
• Favorite cuisines
• Wine preferences
• Budget

The most important ingredients aren't on any shopping list: time together, thoughtful conversation, and the intention to create something special.

Shop the Valentine's Day Collection

All wines featured in these menus are available now. Order early to ensure delivery before Valentine's Day!

Sparkling & Celebration:
• Crémant de Loire Rosé - $23.99
• Villiera Tradition Brut - $27.00
• François Montand Blanc de Blancs - $22.00

Elegant Whites:
• House of Brown Chardonnay - $25.00
• Domaine Mosnier Petit Chablis - $36.50
• Aslina Chardonnay - $24.00

Romantic Reds:
• Bindi Super Tuscan - $21.00
• Phil Long Cabernet Sauvignon - $28.99
• Chosen Family Pinot Noir - $39.00

This Valentine's Day, create memories that last longer than a restaurant reservation. With the right wine, the right food, and the right person, your home becomes the most romantic restaurant in town.

Continue reading: Supporting Black-Owned Wine Brands, Climate Change & Wine, and Black Winemakers' Global Impact.