If red is the colour of passion, we shine the light on two contrasting red wines to stoke the fires of romance.

Whether or not you will be quite up to popping the question on Feb.14th but are up for popping a cork, it may just be the day to try a dramatically different fizz.

Bouvet Rubis (Majestic rrp £13.49) is a new red bubbly made by French sparkling wine specialists, Bouvet Ladubay.

Featuring 100% Cabernet Franc grapes from the Loire region, this Demi-Sec,‘méthode traditionnelle’ is handsomely bottled with striking red foil and classically elegant label.

Best enjoyed as an aperitif or with sensuous desserts, Bouvet Rubis has fine, energetic bubbles which carry a deluxe sensation of ripe crimson fruit over a lively balance of sweetness and acidity. 

If however, discretion, rather than exuberance, is more your style then a classy Cru Beaujolais may well be the route to happiness.

The elite wines of Beaujolais are somewhat under-appreciated in the UK and for Valentines there can be no better choice than the appropriately named Saint-Amour.

As all romances must begin with first acquaintance, Château de Beauregard Côte de Besset Saint-Amour 2013 (The Wine Society £14.50) will deliver the charm of it’s silky, light body, fruity character and surprisingly earthy notes.

What more could you ask for to accompany the delicate and varied nibbles of a Valentine’s day hamper?