There’s no place like home
The pressure at Valentine’s Day to show our loved ones how much they mean to us can be exhausting. Rather than the predictable gifts and cards, find something which says it from the heart this year; give them a wheel of cheese, a bouquet of books or their favourite hand cream. Don’t let it stop at the gifts, choose activities or supper ideas which speak more to their personalities.
An indoor picnic is great way of showing you care without the (sometimes obvious) 2-course meal at the local gastropub. Set the scene in your own living room; either on a giant blanket or in front of the sofa with an abundance of props from candles to cushions, from flowers to a fluffy blanket.
For the food, there’s no need to spend hours in the kitchen. One of our experts have shared their top three cheeses for the cheeseboard:
1. Baron Bigod Brie
This locally-produced smooth silky golden brie is wrapped in a nutty rind and makes the perfect accompaniment to the dark flavours in this Jarrold Norfolk Onion and Date Chutney
(295g, £4.50).
2. Truffle Pecorino
With slithers of fresh truffle incorporated at the beginning of the cheesemaking process resulting in a rich sharp favour with a wonderful truffle finish,
3. Gorgonzola
Sweet and creamy scooping gorgonzola to spread onto fresh bread or these Spelt & Fig Artisan Crispbread from Peter’s Yard (100g, £3.40).
Wash it all down with a vibrant, flavoursome port such as Sandeman 10 Year Old Tawny Port (75cl, £22.50) but don’t forget to finish with something sweet. These Sugar-Coated Chocolate Caramel Filled Hearts from Love Cocoa (100g, £6.50) make an adorable touch.
Jarrold Norfolk Onion and Date Chutney
(295g, £4.50).
Spelt & Fig Artisan Crispbread
from Peter’s Yard (100g, £3.40).
Sandeman 10 Year Old Tawny Port
(75cl, £22.50)
Sugar-Coated Chocolate Caramel Filled Hearts
from Love Cocoa (100g,
Sparkle & Stardust
A flute of champagne is synonymous with the most romantic day of the year; who hasn’t clinked a glass with their true love to toast their good fortune on Valentine’s Day? Is it the touch of luxury or the connection to the country of love, France? Well, whatever the reason, enjoying a special glass of something is a fabulous way to relish in a little romance.
With it’s distinctive heritage, Champagne certainly has the prestige but when looking for a bottle to enjoy this Valentine’s Day, don’t be afraid to give English sparkling wine a try. With many award-winning vineyards offering a greater variety, sparkling wine from our little island is starting to make a mark on the world of fine wines.
Our recommendation for something a little fresher would be this charming bottle from Nyetimber which balances pear, ripe apple and citrus fruits with a hint of sweetness. Pale gold with fine bubbles offering a rounded flavour with just a hint of toastiness. Fresh citrus fruits are complemented with some richer notes, and the acidity is brilliantly integrated.
Nyetimber Classic Cuvee English Sparkling Wine, 75cl | £40
Show yourself a little love
It’s a relationship that will last a lifetime… show yourself a little kindness and care with small but significant indulgences which can make your day.
Gyre & Gimble Queen of Hearts Cherry Gin
70cl | £35
A sweet, fruity gin with a velvety texture and citrus tang – perfect to show you are the queen (or king!) of your heart.
Monty Bojangles Magnificent Caramel
Belgian Chocolates
115g | £7
Because you are magnificent… a wonderful indulgent Belgian chocolate which you don’t have to share.
English Tea Shop
Super Goodness Collection
12 Pyramid Tea Bags | £5.50
If you are taking part in some selfcare, this lovely collection of premium quality organic loose-leaf teas promotes wellbeing and gives you a moment of me-time.