When you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with someone special, it’s important to get the mood just right, and nothing sets a proper mood like thoughtful food and beverage choices. If you’re looking for something different from the traditional wine and chocolates for your Valentine’s Day festivities, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite beers for Valentine’s Day, and we’ve got options that will please every palate. 

For A Fruity and Romantic Brew: Founders Rubaeus 

Nothing says “I love you” on Valentine’s Day like strawberries, and Founder’s Rubaeus beer is nothing short of berries in a glass. Wine-red and packed with fruit flavor, Rubaeus is sweet, a little tart, and reminiscent of sweet summer love — just what we all need in the middle of February. As a bonus, Rubaeus’ sweet flavors make it a perfect introduction for people who don’t normally drink beer. 

Beers That Pair Well with Chocolate: New Holland The Poet Oatmeal Stout and Bell’s Winter White 

Who says wine is the only drink that pairs well with chocolate? The trick when pairing a beverage with chocolate is to balance sweet and bitter. If you like sweet chocolate, try pairing it with a slightly tart beer. Milk chocolate goes well with an oatmeal stout — try New Holland’s The Poet Oatmeal Stout. Meanwhile, dark chocolate (truffles especially) pair harmoniously with a Belgian-style ale like Bell’s Winter White. 

Don’t forget that cold temperatures tend to dull flavors. If your beer and chocolate have been hanging out in the fridge, take them out and let them warm up a bit first to maximize their flavors. 

Beer That IS Chocolate: Oddside Ales Mayan Mocha Stout and Atwater Brewing Decadent Dark Chocolate Ale 

Want to skip the heart-shaped box and drink your chocolate instead? Oddside Ales Mayan Mocha Stout draws inspiration from Mexican hot chocolate, and with notes of cinnamon and a kick of habanero, it’s the perfect chocolate beer to spice up a romantic evening. If you prefer your beer with a bit less spice, then consider Atwater Brewing Decadent Dark Chocolate Ale. This beer’s complex chocolate flavor is luxurious without being excessively sweet. 

High-ABV Beer: New Holland Dragon’s Milk 

For a beer that’s as strong as your feelings, look for a high-ABV brew like New Holland Dragon’s Milk. People go wild for the intense flavors and full body of Dragon’s Milk year-round, but there’s no better time for this strong ale than a chilly Valentine’s Day evening. At 11% ABV, Dragon’s Milk is meant to be sipped, not slammed, so it’s a beer you and your partner can savor together. 

Beer When You’re in the Mood for Something Bubbly: Lindeman’s Framboise 

For a sophisticated take on beer that’s sure to please, opt for a bubbly, effervescent ale that resembles champagne. Lindeman's Frambroise is a complex, fruity beer with fresh raspberry flavors that, along with some flowers and candlelight, will perfectly set the scene for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. 

Classic, Crowd-Pleasing Brews: Founders Solid Gold and Bell’s Two Hearted 

If your Valentine’s Day activities involve spending time with good friends, a variety of classic, easy-to-drink Michigan brews will brighten spirits and help keep the party going. Try Founders Solid Gold for a light and refreshing beer that doesn’t skimp on hop and malt flavors. And for those who like their beers a bit heartier and hoppier still, Bell’s Two Hearted never fails to satisfy. 

Beer That Will Help You Keep Your New Year’s Resolution: Michelob Ultra 

If your Valentine’s Day plans need to accommodate a calorie-cutting New Year’s Resolution, then congratulations. You’ve stuck with it longer than the rest of us! Keep your momentum going by celebrating Valentine’s Day with Michelob Ultra — a refreshing light beer that’s stood the test of time. 

For more great beer options, visit your local D&W Fresh Market. We stock a wide selection of beers from within Michigan and around the world that will please everyone from the casual beer drinker to the connoisseur.