There are as many different kinds of Valentines as there are ways to celebrate. While candy is dandy, we all know that liquor is quicker, and if you are creative, it can be pretty romantic. The act of mixing a cocktail, the measuring and shaking and combining,pouring it into the perfect glass and garnishing with just the right touch can show more care than just picking up a bouquet or a box of candy.

Everyone has their favorite tastes and so knowing what your Valentine, even if it's just a friend you are celebrating with, enjoys is key. Just as red roses are not everyone's favorite flower, not everyone swoons for a chocolate martini. And yet showing up with the same old bottle is no fun either. Showing up with something new gives you a chance to play and experiment. And it's easier than trying to bake something. It can even be lower calorie. For example, one ounce of the tempting new Cafe Boheme, a creme liqueur made with coffee French vodka with creme and vanilla has 75 calories. The liqueur, which is sweet without being cloying and doesn't have that oddly chalky taste I've noticed in some other creme liqueurs, can be used to make an espresso martini with vodka, a dollop of whipped cream and a garnish of chocolate covered coffee beans.

For wine pairing ideas for Valentine's Day check out the picks from Natalie MacLean here.

The gallery below includes ideas of liquors to choose for all kinds of evenings for the sweet and romantic, to the girls night in to the hot and spicy and even the right drink to bring your Gothic valentine.