You can keep your chocolates, oysters and perfume. I know the best way to seduce the opposite sex. When it comes to getting that special someone in the mood, nothing beats wine. But which wines are best?

Sure you can try your big, boozy over-the-top bombs that go straight to your head. Although effective, I’m not sure these are always your best bet. Seduction through wine should be a romantic affair and the wine you choose says a lot about how you feel about the person you drink it with. Each grape and region offer something unique and some are definitely more seductive than others. Tuscany says romance more than a Zinfandel from Contra Costa County, and an elegant Pinot Noir is definitely more tender and thoughtful than a beastly Shiraz. When you need wine to play the part of aphrodisiac, your choice of grape is critical.

I’ve pitted a few of the most popular varieties against each other to help you determine which are worthy of an evening of seduction and which are better off as “just friends.”

Sauvignon Blanc vs. Chardonnay

First, reflect on the character of the wine you are considering. Sauvignon Blanc is fresh and vivacious, but also tart and abrasive — what does that say about you? You want your wine to sooth and embrace, comfort and relax. The right Chardonnay will do this, but be careful, there is a lot out there and not all of it is the fine and elegant version you seek. You need to find something with balance and finesse, preferably French (what’s more romantic than France?). White Burgundy is always a winner. Go with Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet or Pouilly-Fuisse. These are the wines of passion. Sauvignon Blanc may be great on a hot day, but not on a hot date.

Winner: Chardonnay

Pinot Noir vs. Malbec

Although both these grapes are wildly popular right now, only one of them is going to provide the mood you’re looking for. Pinot Noir is like silk pajamas or lacy lingerie, a wine built for intimate moments. It’s a mysterious and fascinating grape, revealing itself slowly, shedding layers over the course of an evening and leaving you wanting more. Pinot is the ultimate red wine for romance, showing just the right amount of skin to get your juices flowing. Malbec may be great for the barbecue season, but it’s the equivalent of a caveman with a club when it comes to sophistication. Besides, Malbec leaves you with those awful red wine stains on your teeth, so it’s definitely off the list.

Winner: Pinot Noir

Champagne vs. Prosecco

Prosecco is popular and fun, perfect for when old friends get together for a night of laughs. I love it on a patio, especially at lunch and as a first-date wine. It’s a safe and dependable choice. But when you’re trying to make a statement to someone special, all it really says is “You’re not worth Champagne,” and you just can’t take that kind of risk. In the battle of the bubbles, you have to go with the French. If you really want to finesse the evening, go with a rosé Champagne. If this doesn’t work, it’s time for a “it’s-not-you, it’s-me” conversation, followed by “let’s stay friends.” Then it’s time to break out the Prosecco.

Winner: Champagne

Port vs. Banyuls

So you’re going for the chocolate dessert? Good call, but what will you serve with it? Ordering up that molten chocolate lava cake is a great move, but finding the right wine for it is tricky business. A lot of people would go for the classic here and reach for a Port, but not me. Port is a little too “Old Boys club.” You’re not looking for a bridge partner. Go for the Banyuls — a sweet red wine, rich and luscious, with exotic aromas that flow down your throat, leaving you glowing and warm all the way to your toes. If Banyuls and chocolate can’t create the right mood, you might as well break out the cards.