Whether it's a winter white you want, a hearty red for rich dinners or a sexy sip to slip into Valentine's night, wine experts Leslie Sbrocco and Ray Isle have you covered with wines to celebrate.
Winter Whites
Ray: 2016 E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Blanc, France, $17, Guigal
An affordable French white crafted with a blend of primarily Viognier with Roussanne and other Rhone white grapes, this is a top value from a storied Rhône Valley producer. With melon and citrus notes, it's a winter white to serve with anything gracing the table.
Leslie: 2016 Ponzi Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley, Oregon, $19, Ponzi Vineyards
If this luscious yet crisp wine was an item of clothing, it would be a sleek winter-white dress that pairs with any occasion. The same is true for Ponzi's Pinot Gris, which matches dishes from squash soup to grilled fish. The Ponzi sisters, Maria and Luisa, are wine mavens in charge of this classic Oregon winery. Their vibrant personalities are reflected in this joy-to-sip white.
Winter Reds
Ray: Medici Ermete I Quercioli "Secco" Lambrusco, Italy, $14, Kobrand Wine & Spirits
Yes, it's deeply, intensely red in color, and it's sparkling. But Medici's I Quercioli Lambrusco isn't sweet at all, and it's a superb match for rich winter dishes. Pasta bolognese and this...you're talking perfection.
Leslie: 2015 Peachy Canyon "Incredible Red" blend, California, $15, Peachy Canyon
When winter weather is whirling outside, stay inside with a hearty dish and a big glass of something incredible. This juicy Zinfandel-based blend sports full-bodied flair, dark fruit flavors, and a peppery kick. Serve alongside braised meat dishes, mushroom risotto, or pulled pork.
Perfect Picks for Valentine's Day (or Night)
Ray: NV Mionetto "Cuvee Anniversario" Valdobiadenne Prosecco, Italy, $24, Mionetto USA
Kick off the romantic evening with this limited-release sparkler from one of the most well-known Prosecco producers in Italy. It's history in a glass. Dry, crisp and lively, it's great for a romantic toast. The bottle is stunning, too, making it the perfect gift for your Valentine.
Leslie: 2016 Sanford Rosé, Sta. Rita Hills, California, $22, Sanford Winery
Not only is this rosé a delicious partner for most meals, it's elegant and beautiful to look at...just like your Valentine. Crafted by one of California's legendary producers with Pinot Noir from two estate vineyards, including the historic Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, this is a serious pink but also seriously fun to sip.
Romantic Dinner Wines
Ray: 2015 Charles Smith Wines "Velvet Devil" Merlot, Washington, $14, Charles Smith Wines
When you want to walk on the wild side, look for wines from Charles Smith. This whimsical Washington red is a rich, luscious Merlot with dark berry fleshiness. Come on, who doesn't want to get a little devilish on Valentine's Day?
Leslie: Graham's "Six Grapes" Reserve Port, Portugal, $24, Premium Port
End the evening in sultry style with this opulent yet elegant dessert sipper from one of the famed producers of Port. W. & J. Graham's dates to 1820 and is a producer that marries tradition with innovation. I adore their Six Grapes Port for its high quality and affordable price. It's a decadently smooth and lightly sweet wine to finish a meal in sexy style.