Wines of the week: Taittinger Prestige Rose NV; Château d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé 2010; Oudinot Rosé Champagne NV

Terry Kirby selects the best Valentine's bottles

The traditional

Taittinger Prestige Rose NV

Valentine's Day may be over-hyped, but it is still a good excuse to brighten mid-February by sharing some great "pinks" with your loved one. This is from one of the fine old names of champagne, a house still in family ownership: classically refined, with lots of creamy raspberry and cherry fruit flavours, given extra complexity by a high proportion of Pinot Noir grapes. Perfect with smoked salmon or other canapés. £42.99, Waitrose; Wine Rack £30.99 (until 4 March); Majestic £37 (when buying two as part of minimum six bottle purchase; normally £42)

The up-and-comer

Château d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé 2010

Once solely a summer drink, rosé now finds favour even in winter with a few producers such as this setting new standards way above the "fun and fruity" idea. This is an appropriately sophisticated bottle for a cosy supper à deux at any time and has a real depth of flavour that makes it ideal with lobster or other fine shellfish and crustacea. £13.50, goedhuis.com (minimum purchase 12 bottles); £15.65, slurp.co.uk

The best of the high street

Oudinot Rosé Champagne NV

Even if you are not planning a special evening this week, this time (and Mother's Day next month) is a brilliant period to hunt down sparkling bargains for when you do want to celebrate. M&S has one of the most dependable ranges of fizz on the high street and this excellent rosé version of its own-label champagne is wonderfully crisp and dry, with lots of crunchy berry fruits and a satisfyingly long finish. £15, Marks & Spencer (until 4 March; normally £25)