Bubbles and Truffles for Valentine's Day

The Black Swan. Romeo and Juliet. Giselle. Some of the greatest love stories told through dance include iconic pairings of dancers, or “pas de deux,” a French ballet term meaning “steps of two,” in which two dancers perform together. In the same romantic tradition, we think Biltmore’s lively Pas de Deux sparkling wine sets the stage as a perfect go-to wine for Valentine’s Day entertaining.

Almost as sweet as your Valentine, Pas de Deux sparkling wine is perfect as an aperitif cocktail before dinner, or with desserts such as fresh fruit, cheesecake, or chocolate truffles. This wine could also serve as the perfect start to a night out with friends.

What to expect from this wine….Crafted in the classic Methode Champenoise, the lively bubbles offer a celebratory note, while its delicate sweet flavors and crisp finish are the perfect foil for the rich, creamy texture of chocolate confections and decadent Valentine’s Day fare.

Try one of these cocktail recipes along with the following easy chocolate truffle recipe this Valentine’s Day.

Pomegranate Pas de Deux Punch

Serves One
Ingredients:
• 1 ¼ ounces orange vodka
• 3/4 ounce triple sec
• 1 ounce pomegranate juice
• 1/2 ounce fresh-squeezed orange juice
• 2 ounces Biltmore Pas de Deux

Method:
Combine vodka, triple sec, pomegranate juice, and orange juice in a mixing glass over ice. Shake well and strain over ice in a tall glass. Top with Pas de Deux. Garnish with an orange wheel.

Sparkling Blackberry Punch

Serves One
Ingredients:

• 1 ounce light rum
• ¾ ounce blackberry brandy
• 2 ounces cranberry juice
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• 1 ounce blackberry puree
• 3 ounces Biltmore Pas de Deux

Method:
Combine rum, brandy, cranberry juice, simple syrup and blackberry puree over ice in a mixing glass. Shake well and strain mixture over ice in a tall glass. Fill with Pas de Deux. Garnish with fresh blackberries and a mint sprig.

Decadent Biltmore Chocolate Truffles

Makes about 20 truffles.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Cocoa powder or semi-sweet chocolate, as needed for the finish
• Optional additions: 2-3 tablespoons liqueur, roasted chopped nuts, chopped dried fruit, toasted coconut, fruit jam, peanut butter, sweet potato, caramel topping, chopped toffee or cookie pieces, extracts or flavorings.

Method:

To make the ganache, place chocolate into a bowl. Bring the cream to a boil and pour over the chocolate. Stir together until all is combined and chocolate is melted. Mix in any additions (see above for suggestions) to the ganache you desire. Let the ganache set and scoop into portions and place onto parchment or wax paper. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes then take out and round into balls. Roll into cocoa powder or coat in semi-sweet chocolate and serve.