Enjoy The Perfect Pairing: Valentine's Day And California Wine Country

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- So, you've found the perfect partner for Valentine's Day, and want to create an unforgettable romantic experience? California's wine regions have you covered.

Whether you're a long-time couple or enjoying that first spark, there's no better place to dial up the romance. From fun getaways and events to unique wine country activities and enticing meals paired with delicious California wines, you'll find the perfect way to connect with that special someone from among more than 50 winery events across the state of which a sampling is listed below. A complete list of wine festivals, packages, tours and activities with ticket prices is at: www.discovercaliforniawines.com/media-trade/news. Find out more about California's wine and wine regions by checking out Wine Institute's wine and food website at www.discovercaliforniawines.com.

Northern California

Castello di Amarosa, Napa Valley: Treat your sweetie like a king or queen at the "Royal Hearts Gala" on Feb. 16, where Shakespeare in the Vines perform selected scenes from the legendary bard's most romantic plays and sonnets during dinner.

Domaine Chandon, Napa Valley: Love is in the air—and in every sip—at Domaine Chandon this Valentine's Day Feb. 14. Linger with your loved one at etoile Restaurant, where you'll be served an elegant five-course menu.

A Taste of Redwood Valley, Mendocino County: This made-for-romance festival on Feb. 9 features winery tastings, exquisite dark and milk chocolates, truffles, dipped strawberries, heart-shaped cakes and more, paired with rich port-style wines, Cabernet Sauvignon and more.

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County: If decadence is your middle name, check out the "Annual Wine & Chocolate Fantasy" on Feb. 9, where top chocolatiers will tempt you with delicious bites as you pair them with fine wine and music.

Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley, Sonoma County: This six-hour guided group wine tour visits several wineries—such as B.R. Cohn Winery, Benziger Family Winery and Ravenswood Winery—and includes a family-style picnic lunch Feb. 1-March 31.

Inland Valleys

16^th Annual Lodi Wine & Chocolate Weekend, Lodi: Celebrate two nectars of the Gods at this decadent festival Feb. 9-10, where you and your sweetie can sip wines paired with delights from Brix Chocolate at over 45 wineries.

Madera Wine Trail's Wine & Chocolate Weekend, Madera County: Celebrate Valentine's Day on the Madera Wine Trail and enjoy wine tasting at 12 wineries, chocolates, live music and local art! Feb. 9-10.

Sierra Foothills

Holly's Hill Winery, El Dorado County: Get to your lover's heart through their stomach by treating them to a Valentine's Weekend Food & Wine Pairing Feb. 16-17, featuring an elaborate four-course menu paired with wines and with romantic Spanish and classical music by Nicholas Lefler.

Deaver Vineyards Passion for Ports, Amador County: Sample eight luscious ports from Deaver on Feb. 9 with a luscious treat from chocolate covered strawberries to chocolate covered blueberries. Take home a Riedel port glass to enjoy your favorite port.

Central Coast California

Wente Vineyards Estate Winery, Livermore: The historic estate will host a "Romance, Wine & Chocolate" event on Feb. 10, featuring five decadent chocolate desserts paired with wines and Valentine's Day trivia.

River Road Wine Trail Valentine's Passport 2013, Monterey County: Savor the sweetheart of all tastings as the 11 artisan vintners along Monterey's River Road Wine Trail share the love Feb. 9 with wine and food pairings, special discounts and more.

Robert Hall Winery, Paso Robles: Bring your special one for an "Italian Romance" Valentine's Day evening. Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, followed by three courses of authentic Italian cuisine, paired with estate wines and mandolin music.

Zipline Romance Package at Hampton Inn & Suites, Paso Robles: For those who need a little adventure with their partner, stay one night Feb. 14-17 and enjoy a thrilling ziplining experience over Ancient Peaks Winery, plus sparkling wine and fresh roses.

Riverbench Vineyard & Winery Valentine's Archery Lessons, Santa Barbara County: Will Cupid hit the mark? Come show off your hot shot skills at Riverbench with a one-hour lesson, followed by a tasting. Feb. 16, 11-12 pm. 

Southern California

Oak Mountain Winery, Temecula Valley: You and your sweetheart are a perfect blend. The "7^th Annual Wine Blending Party" on Feb. 15, led by winemaker Steve Andrews, lets you create a wine that reflects your love.

Ponte Family Estate/Ponte Vineyard Inn, Temecula Valley: Book the "Vineyard Romance" package (starting at $284) this February, which includes a welcome amenity, bottle of sparkling Moscato and dinner. For an extra romantic touch add a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyard.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula Valley: The "Wine Lovers Package" includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe Luxury Villa with rose petals, chocolate-covered strawberries, sparkling wine, Ultimate Wine Tour, cheese pairing for two, a select bottle of estate wine, Mimosa Breakfast for Two and discount passport booklet.

For the latest scoop on California wines, wineries, food tours and wine regions you can check out during your visit for Valentine's Day and beyond, go to www.discovercaliforniawines.com.  

California is the most visited state in the U.S. for wine and food-related activities. The state is the world's fourth largest wine producer with nearly 3,600 wineries and 90 percent of U.S. wine production. It also farms 400 agricultural crops, providing a wide assortment of fresh ingredients for the fine chefs in California's 90,000 restaurants and eateries.

SOURCE Wine Institute