I’ve never really gotten the whole wine-chocolate pairing thing. Apart, they’re both terrific. Together, they’re either downright horrible or tolerable but in a strained sort of way. (And suddenly I’m remembering college dating adventures for some reason.)
I feel much the same about Valentine’s Day. A heart-shaped box of chocolates is not romantic. Going out in 3 degrees Fahrenheit in the bitter Western Massachusetts winter and warming up the car for your wife to drive to work is romantic. (Yeah, Mr. Vinecdote is a keeper. Also: So glad we moved to California.)
Given those prejudices, I wasn’t expecting to like Rosenblum Desiree Chocolate Dessert Wine.
In fact, I didn’t like it. I loved it.
It’s made from zinfandel, syrah and touriga nacional, the traditional grape of classic ports, with chocolate emulsion added. The result is delicious _ dark, smooth, a definite port-like character and a rich taste that feels as though a square of very good quality dark chocolate is melting in your mouth. Just the thing to round off a good, homecooked meal whether it’s Valentine’s Day or just regular old Tiu’s Day, and a Valentine’s tradition I can definitely embrace.
It’s $20 for a 375 ml bottle, so won’t leave you bankrupt _ unlike overpriced roses, $3 cards and fighting for elbow room on one of the busiest nights of the year for restaurants.
And you don’t have to worry about frostbite.
Cheers, pragmatically.
Something sweet for Valentine’s http://t.co/IeZL7sHL