Three to have...on Valentine's day

Ca del Pipa, Valpolicella Ripasso 1999, €13, (down from €17), O'Brien's.

Ca del Pipa, Valpolicella Ripasso 1999, €13, (down from €17), O'Brien's.

When Valentine's Day occurs in Lent, it presents a curious problem for those that have sworn off chocolate. Few people, however, give up gold or diamonds for Lent.

A sensory treat to match the jewellery is this echo of Venice, a strong, soulful Ripasso, bursting with intense dark fruit and a velvet wash. (89)

St Hallett, Semillon Select, 1998, €12, O'Brien's.

Even ...