Lights, camera, action! The Côte d’Azur, with its unique coastline and picture-postcard hilltop villages, is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner à deux. Choosing the right wine for a special occasion is sometimes hit and miss, due to the amazing choice. In this guide, we explore some of the best French wines for romance To make sure your time together is an unforgettable one.
Best French Wines for Romance
1Saint Amour – The Epitome of Love
Named after the small village of Saint Amour in the Beaujolais region, what better choice than a bottle of Saint Amour to start off your romantic date. A Beaujolais Cru (Cru is a wine term used to indicate a high-quality vineyard or group of vineyards), Saint Amour is made from the Gamay grape, making it light and fruity on the palate. Wine connoisseurs might distinguish red fruit flavours, floral notes, and a smooth texture. For the rest of us, it is simply an ideal choice to show our love. Pair it with dishes like grilled chicken or roasted duck for a perfect match.
For more information, please visit: https://www.vins-du-beaujolais.com/boutique/cote-de-besset-chateau-bonnet/
2Château d’Esclans – Whispering Angel
Whoever came up with the name Whispering Angel for a Rosé wine from the South of France, showed a true touch of genius. Hailing from the Provence region, northeast of St Tropez, this wine from Chateau d’Esclans is now widely found at some of the best restaurants on the French Riviera. With a lovely pale pink colour, this wine shows delicate aromas of red berries and citrus. It is one of my personal favourites for a romantic evening by the Mediterranean. Try it with lobster salad, seafood, grilled Loup (seabass) or Daurade (seabream), and your taste buds will sing.
For more information, please visit: https://www.vinatis.com/id-58938-whispering-angel-2022-caves-d-esclans
3Clos Ste Magdeleine – Vin Blanc de Cassis
The Clos Sainte Magdeleine vineyard is unique, with an unparalleled location, looking over the Mediterranean sea. Vines were first planted there in the 12th century, making Clos Ste Magdeleine part of the winemaking history of Provence. I was lucky enough to have a private tour a few years ago and I will never forget the breathtaking views.
Its white wines are very harmonious with just the right balance of fruit and acidity. The AOC Cassis Blanc is its flagship wine, a blend of 4 grape varieties (Marsanne, Clairette, Ugni Blanc, Bourboulenc), and is vinified without filtration or fining. The result: the local terroir sings through the minerality and generous mouth feel of this wine. Pair it with grilled local line-caught fish (Loup, Rougets or Pageot) and you will thank your good fortune!
For more information, please visit: https://www.famillesack.vin/la-gamme-domaine/p/aoc-cassis-blanc-2022
4Ruinart Rosé – The Ultimate Celebration
If your romantic dinner calls for a truly special celebration, consider indulging in a bottle of Ruinart Rosé Champagne. Produced by the iconic Ruinart Champagne house, the Rosé Champagne is synonymous with luxury and opulence. It is a harmonious champagne that balances the aromatic freshness of Chardonnay with the fruitiness of Pinot Noir. With its fine bubbles, refined structure, and a hint of pink grapefruit, this Champagne is the epitome of celebration and romance. Pair it with seafood for a match made in heaven.
For more information, please visit: https://millesimes.com/Ruinart__rose_Ruinart_vin_rose
5Château Margaux – A Red Elixir of Passion
For those with a deep wallet, Château Margaux from the Bordeaux region is an outstanding choice. This Premier Cru Classé has a long history dating back to the 16th century. Now owned by the Mentzelopoulos family, it offers a velvety texture, complex aromas of dark fruits, and a lingering finish. If you are looking to add passion and sophistication to your evening, look no further than Château Margaux. Pair it with a classic French dish like Fillet steak with pepper sauce or a tender rack of lamb.
For more information, please visit: https://www.cavissima.com/chateau-margaux-margaux-2018-9135.htm
6Château Puy d’Amour, Coup de Foudre – An Affordable Delight
For young romantics on a tighter budget, this wine is a great choice. This Bordeaux blend from Château Puy d’Amour, aptly named Love at First Sight (Coup de Foudre), is a delightful red wine. With a deep garnet colour, an aroma of red fruits and an elegant mouthfeel, this organic wine pairs equally well with red meat, pasta dishes and cheese platters. Impress your loved one with your wine selection without breaking the bank.
For more information, please visit: https://www.vinatis.com/54512-chateau-puy-d-amour-coup-de-foudre-2021