As we head into February, love is in the air and we start gearing up for the annual rain of Cupid’s arrows on Valentine’s Day. To get that libido stirring, we are blissing on some of these aphrodisiacs to help you and your honey get your mojo on.
Aphrodisiacs are named after the ancient Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite so what better time to try some of these dynamic matching duos for a decadent night of pairing on some of these heavenly matches below. You’re guaranteed to be head over heels!
Oysters
The famed 18th century lover, Casanova, was reported to have indulged in raw oysters every morning to fuel his stamina. Oysters contain high amounts of zinc which raises testosterone production thus enhancing libido.
Wines to pair: Champagne is always a classic match for these mollusks but dry white wines fresh in acidity like Chablis would also make for a match made in heaven.
Figs
A seductive fruit dating back to the Garden of Eden, many believe it may have been the forbidden fig that got Adam and Eve into that hot mess of trouble! Figs are packed full of antioxidants and flavonoids which can lead to feelings of relaxation and a sense of well-being. They are also high in amino acids which boosts sexual stamina and libido.
Wines to pair: Silky and seductive Pinot Noir from BC, California or New Zealand is a tried and true tinder match.
Hot Chilies
Hot baby Hot. Let’s spice up that love life! Chili peppers contain a compound known as capsaicin that stimulates the nerve endings on the tongue creating a tingling sensation. Chili also creates an endorphin high much like spicy love.
Wines to pair: German Rieslings with a bit of sweet help cool down that fire. Sweet cools down heat…but don’t let it cool it down too much
Chocolate
Chocolate is decadent, sweet, sexy and oh so good. We pay homage to the Mayans that first discovered this treat way back in 600 A.D. Chocolate with its feel- good serotonin and a kick like caffeine makes for the perfect Valentine’s food. The darker the better as it has the benefit of being rich in antioxidants too and healthy is sexy.
Wines to pair: Always have the wine as sweet as the dessert or at least packed with sweet fruits. Ruby Ports are a seductively delicious match or a rich Amarone from Italy. Whisky works for being frisky and proves to be a stunning match with chocolate.
Strawberries
Vibrantly red and shaped like a heart, its no wonder the Romans considered the strawberry as the symbol of Venus, goddess of love. Although not a proven aphrodisiac, strawberries dipped in chocolate taste as sexy as watching someone eat them!
Wines to pair: Go with passion pink and crack open a bottle of Rose Champagne. The crisp acidity in the Champagne can stand toe to toe with the juicy tartness of the strawberry any day.
Vanilla
Sexy smelling vanilla is in everything from desserts to drinks to fragrances. Its erotic and warm aromas lower your stress level and can trigger a sense of euphoria to help get you in the mood.
Wines to pair: Vanilla is also found in many oaked white whites. Chardonnay with some oaky notes will work but only if the food has a dash of sweet. For vanilla based desserts like creamy custards and Angel Food cake (hey, it’s Valentines Day), get smitten with a Tawny Port.
Saffron
Cleopatra bathed in saffron infused milk for its aphrodisiac qualities. This spice has been used as an alternative remedy for treating stress and works as a mood enhancer. A sprinkle of saffron can help get you in the mood.
Wines to pair: Rich white wines pair best with this exotic spice, Viognier with its sweet spice and honeysuckle aromas can pair magically. Cotes du Rhone whites with a hint of oak create a harmonious partnership.