According to classic mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction and affection. Not bad for a guy who’s been doling out passion for centuries.

Oh, by the way, Cupid isn’t stupid, either. He knows that a good bottle of wine can help ignite passion and romance in any one of us. If you have any doubts whatsoever, pick up a bottle of wine this Valentine’s Day and make a date with your significant other. I think you’ll find it works wonders.

Of course, the vast selection of wines on the market today can be overwhelming. Therefore, I’ve put together a short list of wonderful wines, both red and white, that will cause hearts to flutter – at least that’s the general idea. Each of these wines are locally available, reasonably priced and delicious. If indeed this helps to stimulate desire in any one of you, just remember, these wines are straight from the heart. Cheers.

Reds

Rancho Zabaco: 2016 (Heritage Vines) Zinfandel, California. Deep ruby in color with hints of pepper, spice and herbs. Blackberry, cherry and plum flavors are nicely integrated into this medium-bodied wine. $16

Ruffino: 2016 Modus, Italy. Ruby red in color with aromas of mature fruits such as cherries, plums and blackberry along with hints of spice. Full-bodied and brimming with flavor from the sangiovese, cabernet and merlot grape varietals. $26

Domaine Bousquet: 2017 Reserve Malbec, Argentina. Intense blackberry and chocolate aromas with hints of spice. Full-bodied with good structure and length. $23

Chateau de Beaucastel: 2017 Coudoulet Rouge, France. Dark in color with pretty notes of raspberries, wild strawberries and spice. Full-bodied with smooth tannins and a velvety, smooth finish. $29

Ponzi: 2017 Tavola Pinot Noir, Oregon. Blackberry, cinnamon, dried cranberry and cedar jump from the glass. On the palate, fresh strawberry, cherry and cocoa powder. Smooth and soft with notes of black licorice. $25

Las Rocas: 2016 El Renegado, Spain. Ruby red in color with layers of plush fruit along with hints of toasty oak and spice. $14

Penfolds: 2016 Koonunga Hill Shiraz-Cabernet, Australia. Deep color with plum, cherry and licorice flavors. Medium-bodied with good balance and a lengthy finish. $16

Santa Ema: 2016 Reserva Merlot, Chile. Chocolate and vanilla, along with mocha flavors that are enhanced by a silky smooth aftertaste. $17

Beckmen: 2017 Purisima Mountain Vineyard Syrah, California. Lush with chocolate, plum, and blackberry flavors that are nicely integrated. Medium-bodied with a long, persistent finish. $32

Whites

Talbott: 2016, Sleepy Hollow, Chardonnay, California. Notes of pear, green apple and lemon along with hints of mineral. This chardonnay has a satiny smooth texture with a long, lush finish. $40

Mulderbosch: 2017 Chenin Blanc, South Africa. Ripe tropical aromas of mango, pineapple and papaya along with refreshing apple notes. $14

Celestin Blondeau: 2016 Sancere (Sauvignon Blanc) France. Lemongrass and green apple flavors that are complemented by sharp acidity. $19

La Marca: NV Prosecco, Italy. Bright gold in color with lemon, green apple and touches of grapefruit flavors. The finish is light, refreshing and clean. $15

Dr. Loosen: 2017 (Bernkasteler Lay) Riesling Kabinett, Germany. Bright yellow in color with white peach, green apple, citrus and wet stone. Full-bodied and brimming with personality on a plush finish. $28

Quivira: 2017 (Fig Tree) Sauvignon Blanc, California. A really nice wine with citrus and floral notes along with lime and lemongrass flavors that are complemented by clean, crisp acidity. $25

Martin Codax: 2108 Albarino, Spain. Crisp, clean and elegant with flavors of pear, passion fruit and apple along with bright acidity. $15

Mumm: NV Blanc de Blancs, California. A marvelous sparkler with layers of rich, creamy fruit, showing accents of lemon tart, fresh almond and sweet anise. $27

Wine of the Week: Kim Crawford, 2019 Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand. Bright gold in color with lemon curd and lime flavors that are complemented by sharp acidity. $17