Grape Gossip, Kate's Valentines Tips - finding that perfevt love match

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Here’s what not to do: Call your wife/girlfriend and tell her you’re going to meet your mates for a drink in the pub. Leave her happily preparing a very delicious romantic meal. Get heavily involved in the conversation in the pub, say yes to a couple more offers of drinks then realise the time. Get back home late, feeling a little squiffy, embrace your wife/girlfriend, comment on the delicious aromas coming from the kitchen. Relax on the sofa, close your eyes for just a minute…and guess what…..wake up around midnight.

Yes this has happened to me and believe me it’s not good behaviour, although we do giggle about it now. Here are my five top tips to a smooth and successful Valentine’s Day:

1. Don’t forget

2. Don’t have a few cheeky drinks before you go home!

3. Give someone a surprise (even if it’s a just a little one)

4. Book a table well in advance – now would be a good time!

5. Get the night going with a glass of chilled champagne waiting for your partner when he/she gets in from work

And here’s my top ten classic food and wines matches that are guaranteed to get the love juices flowing…!!

1. Oysters & dry Champagne or Chablis

2. Chocolate Fondue & Brachetto d’Aqcui (low alcohol sparkling wine)

3. Asparagus & Sauvignon Blanc (one with a bit of age is best)

4. Avocado & fresh, clean Italian white (if there’s no dressing - try an Australian Riesling or Verdelho if you’re serving it with a sauce)

5. Lobster & the finest white wine you can afford; Burgundy or Australian Chardonnay (not too oaky) for preference or you could try a Viognier (Condrieu from the Northern Rhone would be best)

6. Chateaubriand & a good old fashioned gentleman’s claret

7. Chilli (yes I kid you not, this will really turn the heat up) & a fiery Italian (oooh yes please – only joking Kenny!)

8. Strawberries & Moscato d’Asti (a fruity, low alcohol flowery wine from Italy)

9. Mediterranean food - apparently peeled, ripe red peppers are just what the love doctor would prescribe - & Chenin Blanc from South Africa or Italian Pinot Grigio

10. Cheese (I’m not sure how romantic Stilton is but I love it) & rich, nutty Madeira or tawny, LBV or vintage port.

And there we have it ladies and gents, I hope that gives you something to go at and you all get lots of love!