Valentine’s day recipes and pairings

Valentine's Day is a special occasion to celebrate love and affection with a romantic dinner for two. This year, instead of dining out, why not create a candlelit dinner at home with delicious food and wine? Here is a menu that includes a starter, main course, and dessert, all perfectly paired with the right wine.

Starter: Shrimp Cocktail with Avocado Mousse

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. cooked and chilled large shrimp

• 1 avocado

• 1 lime, juiced

• 1 clove of garlic

• 1 tsp. salt

• 1/2 tsp. pepper

• 1/2 tsp. paprika

• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1 tbsp. cilantro, chopped

• 1 tbsp. chives, chopped

• Cocktail sauce

Instructions:

1. Peel and devein the shrimp, and set them aside.

2. In a bowl, mash the avocado and add the lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

3. Mix in the sour cream, cilantro, and chives until well combined.

4. Spoon the avocado mixture into a serving dish, top with the shrimp, and serve with cocktail sauce on the side.

Wine Pairing: ART Series Contortionist Sparkling Rosé

The light, crisp flavor of sparkling wine will complement the fresh and tangy taste of the shrimp cocktail. 

Main Course: Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. beef tenderloin

• Salt and pepper

• 2 tbsp. olive oil

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 cup red wine

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 tsp. thyme

• 1 tsp. Rosemary

• 1 tsp. Honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.

2. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.

4. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Transfer the beef to a roasting pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.

6. Let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

7. In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onion until softened.

8. Add the red wine, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and honey, and bring to a boil.

9. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes or until it has thickened.

10. Serve the sliced beef tenderloin with the red wine sauce on the side.

Wine Pairing: 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Pinot Noir, will pair well with the rich flavors of the beef tenderloin and the red wine sauce. The tannins in the wine will help to cut through the richness of the sauce and bring out the flavors of the dish.

Dessert: Chocolate Pots de Crème

Ingredients:

• 5 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

• 4 egg yolks

• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream

• ½ cup whole milk

• ¼ cup sugar (adjust to the sweetness/bitterness of chocolate)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, add heavy whipping cream, milk, egg yolks, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until steamy and almost boiling. Stir constantly. The cream mixture should coat the back of a spoon.

2. In a blender, add chopped chocolate. Pour hot cream mixture over chocolate. Close the lid of blender and blend until smooth. This happens quickly.

3. Pour the chocolate mixture into small bowls or ramekins. Let it chill in the refrigerator for 1 ½ to 2 hours. 

4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with shaved chocolate.

Wine Pairing: Noir de Noir

A sweet red wine, such as Noir de Noir, will balance the bitterness of the dark chocolate in the mousse. The sweetness of the wine will also complement the fresh and fruity flavors of the berries.

This Valentine's Day dinner and wine pairing is sure to be a hit with your loved one. From the shrimp cocktail to the decadent chocolate mousse, each dish is expertly paired with the perfect wine to make the evening unforgettable. Happy Valentine's Day!