Your (Mostly) Local Guide to Valentine's Day

Don't overthink it. Celebrating Valentine’s Day can be as simple as a good bottle of wine, some great cheese, and decadent chocolates. In the spirit of keeping it simple (and mostly local!) are my picks for doing just that:

The Wine: One of my favorite sources is Mira Winery in Napa Valley, California. I’m a little biased as Mira is owned by my friend, Bear Dyke, but he and his partners have produced a truly lovely collection of wines sold in finer restaurants, and online. Check out their Valentine’s Day special featuring a bottle each of their Mira 2011 Rose Napa Valley and Stanly Ranch Pinot Noir Napa Valley.   

The Cheese: I’m taking a sleek white porcelain platter to Goat Sheep Cow on Church Street to have them whip up one of their delicious cheese tastings with all of the accoutrements like Marcona almonds and quince paste. A-mazing!

The Chocolate: Charleston’s own Sweeteeth creates decadent artisan chocolates—these are a true indulgence. Their bon-bons are over the top! Be sure to request the Bourbon flavor (you will not be disappointed).  

Spending some time in the mountains? Up the road a bit in Hendersonville, North Carolina, I LOVE the truffles from Van’s Chocolates; they are to die for! Enjoy and have a happy Valentine’s Day!