A McBride Guide to Chardonnay

The Perfect Summer Wine

The wine of the summer! Chardonnay is made in some of the world's most iconic winegrowing regions and is one of the most popular and loved white wines. For us, this grape varietal gives us the opportunity to break the rules of fine winemaking. Chardonnay can be medium-full bodied, cool or warm climate, unoaked or rich in oak. The winemaker can cultivate and create the style that they love, for us, we love a cooler climate Chardonnay with light to minimal oak because we want the varietal characteristics to shine through.

Our McBride Sisters Collection Central Coast Chardonnay 2019 is a wine we cannot live without. It’s a crowd pleaser at all of our events and one of our favorite wines to sip with a summer cheeseboard. This is not your gramma's Chardonnay. Drinks well with salmon garnished with fresh dill, Alfredo pasta with spring peas, or grilled portobello mushrooms. It’s not only a seasonal wine, you’ll find our glasses filled with Chardonnay all year round. 

“When I was a baby, my mom drove our bright red Volkswagen bug up the Pacific Coast Highway from LA to a small town called Monterey. This is where I fell in love with vineyards and winemaking.” - Robin McBride

The world’s most popular white wine originated in the Burgundy region of France, with the earliest reference to the wine dating back to 1330. It wasn’t until the 18th century that Chardonnay was introduced to California by Spanish missionaries who planted the first vineyards in Alta California. The popularity of the light green grape grew rapidly over time, now being responsible for over 93,148 acres of vineyards, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s annual 2018 report. 

A rich, buttery flavor is what comes to the majority of people’s minds when they hear “California Chardonnay.” But that’s because that style of California Chardonnay become widely produced and popular until more recently. California has varying regions and microclimates that have a range of cool and warm climate conditions in the vineyards.

Other than California and France, Chardonnay is also cultivated in the majority of major wine regions around the world, from New Zealand to Chile, and Australia to South Africa. All producing great wines in unique and regional styles. Our Reserve Chardonnay is breaking away from the overly oaked style and using minimal oak to complement the grape and terroir characteristics instead of overpowering it. The maritime influence from the vineyard proximity to the ocean gives this wine it's special and delicious qualities. See the where the vineyard is located below.

Chardonnay is a chameleon of a wine, with its flavors varying depending on the terroir (where it is grown and the climate, soil and topography conditions of the region), and the winemaking decisions, including how much new oak that is used in the ageing process and how long it’s in contact. Cooler climate Chardonnays can have gorgeous notes of apricots and citrus, and warmer climates can showcase tropical fruit and honey flavors. 

The Ideal Pairing Dos and Don'ts

The perfect wine of the summer, Chardonnay is an easy wine for food pairings due to its versatile flavor profile. Whether you feel like whipping up a refreshing seafood salad, or a spring vegetable risotto, Chardonnay is the ideal drink to accompany you on a warm summer day. Below are our families pairing dos and don’ts to make sure you have the best experience possible. Cheers!

Dos

• Serve Chardonnay with mild, creamy or buttery dishes.
• Accompany with hearty fishes such as cod or halibut as well as shellfish, such as shrimp, crab, lobster, clams, scallops, oysters, and mussels.
• Pair with pork and poultry dishes that have subtle flavors and plain seasonings.
• Accompany oaky Chardonnay with foods that have a smoked or toasty flavor, such as roasted nuts or baked bread. 
• Pair Chardonnay with sweet flavored and silky textured foods, such as caramelized roast vegetables, sweet corn, creamy soups, and risottos. 

Don’ts

• Pair with aggressively, overseasoned foods and spicy dishes typically found in Indian and Southeast Asian meals. Also avoid pungent or over flavored cheeses. 
• Pair with acidic or bitter foods that can make the Chardonnay taste sour or enhance the bitter aftertaste. 
• Leave Chardonnay sitting on the table, or serve it too cold as this can reduce it’s pairing abilities. Aim to remove the bottle 15 to 20 minutes from the fridge and let it warm up to approximately 40 degrees.

Recipes 

Now that we have run through the dos and don’ts of food pairings, it's time to indulge in some delicious food recipes to try this season. Whip them up for your next happy hour on the patio, cheeseboard at the park or girls night at home.

Cheese Pairings & Snacks

Pair unoaked Chardonnay with soft and creamy cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, Mozzarella and Ricotta. Oaked Chardonnay pairs well with semi-soft aged cheeses with nutty flavors, such as Gruyère, Emmental and Comté.

Main Dishes

The main course. You can sip on Chardonnay by itself, with appetizers, entrées and even dessert. These are our go-to summer recipes using fresh seafood and savory chicken. Do you have a favorite Chardonnay pairing?

Dessert

For us, Chardonnay is so much more than just a wine, it is part of our heritage and heart, it is an origin story. Taste our Chardonnays and get ready for your next summer feast by ordering on our website here or finding the wines in store near you. Get out and enjoy your summer, one glass of Chardonnay at a time!

Xoxo,

Jul 15, 2021 at 10:00 AM Permalink

Grilling Season with the McBride Sisters

Now that we're well into summer, Andréa and I are in our favorite wine & food pairing season. Grilling season. As you might have heard in Wine 101 our free Facebook course teaching you about all things wine, the McBride family loves a great BBQ. Our favorite pairing, BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers and our McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic Merlot — now available in the perfect red wine bundle on our website. What's yours? For some folks, especially those located in warmer climates, grilling season is an all-year round activity, and for others, the start of the summer season signifies outdoor activities, picnics, and grilling. Bring on the warm weather!

According to the 2020 “State of the Barbecue Industry” report from the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association, roughly two-thirds of adults in the United States own a grill or smoker. This means that one out of every three people you know owns a grill. So if you’re not one of them, it’s likely that one of your friends or family does. We know that sharing is caring, so if you’re a grill-owner, invite your friends and family over for a summer cookout, and if you’re not, buy the necessary grilling supplies and take them to your bestie with a grill. How could they not love you for it?

Since the month of July is National Grilling Month, there’s no better time than the present to start prepping your grilling events. From planning your menu to conserving the food, we’ve got you covered. Stay safe, get outside, and let's get grilling!

McBride Guide to Grilled Food & Wine Pairings

We like to break the rules. That's why we don't let the rules about which wines to drink in a specific season ever stop us. We're drinking rosé in the winter and red wine in the summer! All year around we're sipping on our favorite wines. But there's a little secret about grilled food and wine pairings that we can't wait to share. It's time for red wines to shine. 

There is nothing better than meat or veggies right off the grill & a sip of a perfectly chilled red wine. That's right, chilled red wine is here and ready to play! We don't mean ice cold, but given the warmer temps, it's nice to keep your red wines on ice to bring them to the perfect temperature during your family BBQ. When we drink red wine in the summer we feel bold & boujie, that's why our new Bold & Boujie red wine bundle is your grilling season must have. Order yours on the website here.

Flavor Hacks to Step Up Your Grilling Game

Looking to add some punch to your grilling flavors, but not sure where to start? Try these simple, yet incredibly effective flavor hacks that will have you quickly crowned the Grilling King. 

• Who else loves their meat juicy and succulent, with a slight tinge of apple? If you’re not salivating yet, you soon will be when you try spraying your meat with apple cider or apple juice. This trick works wonders on pork and chicken. 
• Herbs really are the spice of life. To revitalize your traditional grilling brush, tie a bunch of fresh herbs onto a wooden spoon, dip your new brush into oil, and use it to paint your produce in a new and flavorsome way. 
• Prevent fish from sticking to the grill by cooking it on lemon slices. This hack provides two benefits: delicious, lemony fish that also saves you the headache of scraping it off the grill.
• Turn your grill into a DIY smoker with two simple tools: aluminium foil and wood chips (such as oak or hickory). Create a pouch out of the aluminium foil, throw in some wood chips, poke some holes in the top of the pouch, and add it to the grill. The pouch will slowly begin to release a smoky flavor and add a unique taste to what you are cooking. 

Must Try Grill Recipes + Wine Pairings 

What’s cooking? Whether you’re a dedicated carnivore, a chicken lover, or a herbivore, there is something that can be thrown on the grill for everyone!

A Delicious Starter: Grilled Chicken Shawarma 

Bursting with deliciously fresh Middle Eastern flavors, this grilled chicken shawarma is not only fast and simple, it is perfect for summer as it goes well with fresh salads such as tabouli, or dips like hummus or tzatziki. 

Wine Pairing: Grilling chicken adds smokiness to the flavor, which stronger, acidic wines match perfectly. Our bold, jammy Black Girl Magic 2018 Zinfandel will be your new favorite pairing. The gorgeous fresh plum, dried cherry and delicate crushed black pepper in the wine will bring out the seasoned chicken and hummus. Available in the Bold & Boujie red wine pack.

For the Herbivores: Portobello Mushroom Veggie Burger

A veggie burger so good it’s adored by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, we knew we had to include it. This portobello mushroom burger is incredibly succulent, with juicy mushrooms fresh off the grill it makes the perfect summer dinner.

Wine pairing: Due to the variety in flavors and richness that veggie burgers can have, they are often able to pair with a range of wines. A fruity red blend, such as our 2019 Central Coast California Red Blend which is a heavenly match for grilled portobello mushrooms with the wines cherry, plum and cedar notes. Available in our Bold & Boujie red wine pack. 

For the Meat Lovers: Churrasco with Chimichurri Sauce

Wine Pairing: As the saying goes, red meat gets red wine. Steak pairs well with a variety of red wines, and you will find that our Black Girl Magic 2018 Merlot or the Black Girl Magic 2019 California Red Blend will each pair perfectly with churrasco, and will complement the heavy garlic in the chimichurri with individual fruity notes. All available in our Bold & Boujie red wine pack. 

Grill + Play

We’ve got a jam-packed weekend ahead of us for this Fourth of July celebration, there are countless options for grilling cookout fun! Spending time with family and loved ones is important, and what better way to do it than over a hot, smoking grill?

If you’re planning a big get together, be sure to pick up some of Black Girl Magic Bubbly Red and Rosé mixed 12-pack of cans, which are perfect for larger groups and come in two refreshing flavors that are sure to cool you down on a summer’s day. Our new Bubbly Red can has juicy pomegranate, strawberry and ripe blackberry. Always serve chilled for a refreshing BBQ outdoor party.

Other Grilling Essentials 

The secret to enjoying a perfect grill is careful preparation and mindful cooking. It would be a shame to have all your food go to waste over careless grilling that resulted in overcooking! Here’s a few other tips to make sure you make the most of your grilling day, so that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a glass of wine:

• Keep everything sanitary and clean. Make sure everyone that is handling food has washed their hands and doesn’t touch their face while handling any food.
• Store the food in a cooler or somewhere cold until it is ready to cook. Leaving meats and fresh produce out for too long can allow bacteria to develop.
• Be mindful not to mix raw and cooked foods, and keep them separate at all times to avoid any bacteria from raw foods contaminating the cooked meals. 
• Keep salads and other cold items chilled on ice to stay fresh. 

Now that you’ve got your recipes, prep, and events planned, the next step is to get your grilling crew together! We hope you have a wonderful grilling season & National Grilling Month— let's get sizzling one delicious glass of wine at a time.

Xoxo,

Jun 30, 2021 at 9:08 AM Permalink

#TracingOurRoots through Barbados

We’re celebrating Black History long after the month of February. Through Juneteenth, we are #TracingOurRoots through the African Diaspora by highlighting different cities, countries and regions. For each region we focus on, Robin & I are hoping to celebrate the traditions, culture and cuisine that have been influenced by the routes of migration of African peoples. For our next stop, we’re on the beautiful island of Barbados, located off the Southeastern coast of the United States in the Carribean. A one-of-a-kind region, Barbados is a country with a unique history that contains traces of a multitude of ethnic influences. It also happens to be where my husband is from, please enjoy our photos from the trips we’ve taken back to his home.

An Island of Traditions 

Barbadian, or Bajan traditions are a fusion of West African and British practices that have resulted in a range of electrifying festivals, intricate arts and crafts, and extravagant performances. 

Landship

Landship is an inherent part of Bajan culture, with origins dating back to the 1800s. It is best described as a theatrical group that performs complex dances reflecting the passage of ships traveling through rugged seas and the adventures that occur onboard. 

The performers wear costumes similar to those worn in the navy and the dance is based around the structure of the British Navy but they are performed to an African rhythm that is typically accompanied by a Tuk band, another intrinsic part of Bajan culture.

The Crop Over Festival

The Crop Over Festival is an exciting, vibrant 200 year old festival that marks the end of the sugar cane season. Rooted deep in the colonial history of Barbados, when sugar cane ruled the island, this festival is now all about celebrating creativity from indigenous art and crafts to flower and folk performances. Lasting for three months starting in August, the finale of the festival marks the most exciting day of the year when you will hear Bajans say: "Crop Over it sweet fuh days!" This gives us a reason to stay in Barbados for three months, you coming?

The Food

As a small island with an incredibly vast culinary heritage, get ready for a melting pot of incredible flavors from India, Africa and England that combine to create a range of unique, varied dishes that intrigue all the senses. 

With an abundance of fresh produce, local Bajans produce an array of tasty dishes including macaroni pie, fish cakes, bakes, cassava pone, salt bread, rice and peas, conkies, coconut turnovers, and of course, the national dish. 

Ask any Bajan what to eat in Barbados and they point you towards the national dish - flying fish and cou cou. Flying fish is a native fish and is so important that it’s featured on the country’s national currency. Barbados, at one point in history, was referred to as the “island of the flying fish” due to the abundance of flying fish that inhabited the waters. The fish tastes great on its own, steamed with acidic lime juice or fried, however, with cou cou, which is similar to grits or polenta in texture, it’s a dish you’ll never forget.

The Recipes

Flying Fish & Cou Cou

You know we love the iconic flying fish, however, it’s time to share the wonders of cou cou. Made from a combination of cornmeal and okra, cou cou is a warming comfort dish that you will come across at many restaurants in Barbados. Tasting like a savory porridge, cou cou pairs perfectly with spicier Bajan dishes too. If you want to follow Bajan tradition, prepare this dish on a Friday or Saturday, or throw it together mid-week for a delicious work day indulge. Your tastebuds will love you for it. 

Get the recipe here. 

Method

Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake.

Strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice.

Top up with McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic NV California Sparkling Brut

Garnish with a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg and a lime wheel.

Jun 16, 2021 at 8:30 AM Permalink

Rosé All Ways

Celebrating National Rosé Day!

A Little History

While the exact moment that rosé was first made is said to date back thousands of years ago, the sweet elixir is newer to America, being popularized in the late 20th century. National Rosé Day was formally established in 2014, after being proposed by Swedish brand Bodvár - House of Rosés - to raise awareness about rosé wine and give affectionados the opportunity to gather and celebrate. 

Which Rosé Are You?

Trendsetter, sassy, the BFF or the life of the party - so, which one are you? 

Trendsetter

You’re just like our brand new, limited edition range, Black Girl Magic Cans Bubbly Rosé, which provides the quintessential strawberry and tangerine notes of the season, for a memorable experience that everyone will be raving about. Being served in a sleek, smooth black can you’re ahead of your time. Be warned: they are going fast. 

Sassy

Like our McBride Sisters Collection NV Hawke’s Bay New Zealand Sparkling Brut Rosé, you know when the occasion calls for a sudden pop to shake things up. You like to keep things moving and stirring, with all the right ingredients including crisp apple and citrus and floral notes. You sassy thing, you!

The BFF

You’re the warm hug that makes everything better, the one who can fix a makeup disaster at the last minute, the contagious smile that always makes you laugh. Just like our McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic 2020 California Rosé, you are classic, sophisticated, yet fruity - the best friend forever. 

Life of the Party

You know the secret to fire up a party, and you know that variety is the spice of life. Coming in two delicious flavors - Island Citrus and Coastal Berry - SHE CAN Canned Wine Dry Rosé Spritzers Mixed 12 Pack provide the perfect range to suit just about any tastebud and liven up any social scene. 

Rosé Recipes

Did you know that rosé is made from the same grapes as red wine? The only difference being that when red wine is made the skin is left on for longer during the fermentation process, resulting in the darker color. Despite sharing the same grape, rosé has a completely unique flavor, one that is the perfect ingredient for a range of delicious summer cocktails. 

Frozé (Frozen Rosé)

The drink that has taken summer parties by a storm, Frosé, needs no introduction. Equally as simple to make as it is delicious, Frosé is the gift that keeps on giving. 

Method

Step 1

Pour 2/3 of the chilled SHE CAN Rosé into a glass and set aside 

Step 2

In a blender or nutribullet cup add the six cut strawberries, simple syrup and the rest of the SHE CAN Rosé that is still in the original can and blend until smooth

Step 3

Strain blended mixture into a pan and place in the freezer for 1-6 hours (If time is of the essence, 30 minutes will work but it will be more like a slushie)

Step 4

Once frozen, scrape mixture back into the blender cup. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, 1 oz Aperol and purée until smooth. You can add additional ice here if you want more. 

Step 5

Once the Frozé is ready pour it into a glass and top it off with the SHE CAN Rosé that was set aside at the beginning. Garnish with a strawberry and enjoy! 

Rosé Lemonade

Everyone’s favorite summer drink is here with a peachy twist. Perfect for entertaining on a hot day, the combination of sweet rosé with tart lemon will delight, refresh, and impress!

Method

Step 1

Add ice to your cocktail glass and combine lemon juice, water and simple syrup. 

Step 2

Fill the glass with the chilled McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic Rosé, genorously 

Step 3

Mix, garnish and enjoy!

National Rosé Day Activities

You’ve got your beverages sorted, now to plan the activities. Rosé is the ideal summer drink that makes for a fun and light celebration, perfect for any trendsetter, sassy queen, BFF, or life of the party. 

Throw a Pink Soiree 

National Rosé Day is about all things pink, and throwing an all-pink party is a perfect way to celebrate in style. Tell all guests to come dressed all in pink and decorate the space in varying shades of rosy hues. Serve up rosé in pink cups alongside delicious pink desserts such as this rose, raspberry and coconut fool.

Host a Wine Tasting

In the comfort of your own home shop our Rosé All Ways sets and pour them into pitchers, so that they can be served without labels. If they are sparkling or bubbly rosé pour into the sparkling glasses ahead of time and keep it a mystery that way. Place the empty bottles and cans near the pitchers, not in a corresponding order. Leave blank tasting cards next to each pitcher, so that every guest can write down their guesses on which pitcher matches which bottle/can and drop it into a box. At the end of tasting, read out the cards and whoever guesses the closest to all four bottles/packs correctly wins a prize! 

Whatever you decide to do, join us as we celebrate National Rosé Day, and remember to rosé all day!

Xoxo,

Jun 12, 2021 at 8:00 AM Permalink

Picnic Season with Robin & Andréa

Spring has officially sprung and it’s time to spend some time in the sunshine with our favorite wines, snacks and playlists.

Andréa and I love picnic season spent in our favorite parks around the Bay area with our cups filled with chilled rosé, our favorite cheeses and some even better company. This year, we could all use some quality time with our friends and family. What better way than with a sunny picnic! For this picnic season we’re sharing our food & drink must-haves and a sneak peek of what’s in our picnic baskets. 

Get our no-cork screw required Wine Must Haves with our new McBride Sisters Collection & Black Girl Magic Wines Picnic Essentials for the perfect set of wines to have for all your picnic needs! Get outside, stay safe, pack a picnic & forget the corkscrew. 

Best Picnic Food + Wine Pairings

You’ve got your picnic basket ready to go, now to figure out what to put in it! Picnics are meant to be fun and easy, and that means delicious finger foods that can be handled easily and shared around. The best picnic foods can be made ahead of time, are easy to transport, and will still taste incredible the next day without much preparation. Let’s dive in!

The Sandwich: Caprese

A great sandwich can be the highlight of an entire meal, and we are advocates for the perfect picnic sandwich. They are simple to make, are compact and can be eaten with your hands. When it comes to packing, simply wrap in foil or wrap so they stay together until it’s time to eat.

Great picnic food often contains minimal ingredients that are well put together, and this Caprese sandwich screams ultimate taste with minimal effort. With juicy tomatoes, smooth mozzarella and fresh basil, you be coming back for seconds.

Wine Pairing: Pair this fresh sandwich with our McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc available in the Picnic Essentials six pack here. 

The Salads

Get your picnic going with these delightfully fresh salads. You’ll be celebrating being outside basking in Mother Nature’s energy once again.

Watermelon & Feta Salad

What can be more refreshing that a watermelon salad? Mixed with red onion, sprigs of mint and mouth-melting feta cheese, this is a blend not to be missed.

Wine Pairing: Pair this sweet & salty salad with our McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic Rosé available in the Picnic Essentials six pack here. 

Creamy Potato Salad with Prawns & Salmon

A great potato salad is show-stopping. Just when the original has been perfected so many times, here comes this recipe with shrimp and salmon. Treat yourself.

Wine Pairing: Celebrate this light, summery seafood salad recipe with a glass of McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic Riesling iavailable in the Picnic Essentials six pack here, The off-dry and high acidity of this wine will compliment that flavors of this salad perfectly! 

The Dip 

Is it even a picnic if you don’t have dips and chips to snack on? We think not. Dips are great because they can be added to almost everything from sandwiches to salads, and can be eaten on their own with cut vegetables or chips.

Beetroot, Yoghurt & Lime Dip

Beetroot lovers rejoice! This deliciously tangy dip is perfect for warm spring days and will create a burst of flavor in your mouth. Try this with your favorite pita chips or even fry some halloumi ahead of time to dip. 

Wine Pairing: This tangy and delicious dip will pair perfectly with a glass of McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic Rosé available in the Picnic Essentials six pack here. The off-dry and high acidity of this wine will compliment that flavors of this salad perfectly! 

The Dessert

After all the tasty savory foods, it’s time to cater to your sweet tooth. Top it off with a celebratory glass of McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic NV California Sparkling Bru available in the Picnic Essentials six pack here for the perfect end-of-meal treat.

Salted Peanut and Honeycomb Rocky Road

Who can say no to a rocky road? Featuring salted peanut and honeycomb, this is a great twist on the classic and will cater to all tastes.

Other Picnic Essentials

Whenever you have a picnic there are a few items that you should bring to ensure everything goes smoothly for you and the space you inhabit. Remembering to bring the following will make a difference in the long-run and help you picnic happily and sustainably:

• Always remember to bring a trash bag to clean up after yourself. You want to leave the beautiful spot in nature just the same way as you found it, so many more can enjoy it after you. 
• For hot days, throw some ice packs into your picnic basket to ensure everything stays cool and fresh.
• Bring additional water for drinking and cleaning sticky hands. 
• A first-aid kit can always come in handy when you’re outdoors. You never know what you may stumble across!
• Remember to bring a picnic blanket.

Lastly, enjoy yourself and never forget the wine! Xoxo,

May 20, 2021 at 12:52 PM Permalink

Celebrating African Diaspora Cuisine

Food and wine tell a story. They allow us to document and experience culture across generations and help us honor where we came from. We celebrate Black History always (long after February), and want to continue tracing our roots along the African Diaspora, highlighting the powerful influences that these routes of migration have had on culture and society today. Robin and I are drawing from as many sources as we can find (e.g. books, experts in the category, people we know, the inna net) to guide and shape these pieces of the puzzle through the diaspora. If we get it wrong, we’re sure you’ll let us know. But we’re hoping we get this right and can share what we find and what we learn so we can educate, celebrate and cultivate community, one delicious glass of wine at a time!  

From the smallest migration region of Mozambique in Southeast Africa to the largest migration origin of the Republic of Congo and Nigeria in West Central Africa, our African ancestors come from a diverse continent with subregions, each with their own culture, cuisine, languages and more.

Every country in Africa is distinct, with its own traditions, flavors and methods of preparing food. Each of these countries have their own occasion and moods. We will explore through our evolved definition of terroir (eco-system, tradition & culture), starting our journey of tracing our roots along the diaspora in Central Africa, exploring culinary influences and cuisine along the way, and of course pairing our wines to match the food and mood. 

Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Along the Western coast of Central Africa, bordering each other are the Republic of Congo (also referred to as Congo-Brazzaville) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (also known as Congo-Kinshasa). The Republic of Congo was colonized by the French, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo was colonized by Belgium. Both countries gained independence around 1960, and use French as one of their official languages, but according to The Culture Trip, both still maintain many other subregional languages and cultures throughout. Even in recent history, colonization and wars have made life extremely difficult for the Congolese. Despite these challenging & traumatic times, we want to educate and highlight the beauty and Black Joy that can be found in these countries, regions and cultures. 

The Food: Saka-Saka

Shredding the greens up reminded us of cooking with our Aunty Annie May in her kitchen in Camden, Alabama. My mind made the instant connection to her collard greens and ham, passed down to her from our grandpa who loved to cook. I wonder if Saka-Saka had evolved from Africa throughout the Diaspora to the United States in the form of how we prepare Collard Greens today? 

Image & Recipe from @Immaculatebites | Shop the Wine Pairing: Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut

The Mood: The Congolese Birds of Paradise

Le Sape ("Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes" - the Society of Ambiance-Makers and Elegant People) also known as the Sapeurs and Sapeuseare are what would be described as Congolese Dandies. According to Condé Nast Traveler, the aristocratic superiority of one’s mind is the symbol of the Congolese Dandy. In Brazzaville and Kinshasa, their appearance is STRIKING in the context of the living conditions of many Congolese. Those conditions were a result of wars that decimated their economy for many years. It’s hard for me to wrap my mind around tailored designer clothing in this context, so I had to dig in and learn more. In reading, the topic is very controversial. The French word Saper means to dress up or to undermine. This Congolese Dandy phenomenon can be traced historically to the 1920s when young African men began to combat the racist attitudes of their masters by rejecting the second-hand clothes they were often given instead of wages. Instead, they took the style of the colonial overseers, exaggerated it with beautiful bold colors and prints and made it their own.

"A group of sapeur women strike a pose during a sapeur event in Brazzaville"
Source: OZY - Photographs by Victoire Douniama

Badouin Mouanda, a member of the Congolese Photography Collective shared his insight in a fascinating interview with Marion Nur Gonde in Africultures:

“I realized that S.A.P.E. played a very important role in Brazzaville in 1998-1999, after the civil war. There wasn’t anything left to do in town; everything was shut down. The sapeurs recreated the atmosphere that is part of Congolese day-to-day life. For the traumatized population, the attraction of the sapeurs was to show that you had to have hope. Their message was, “We didn’t get dressed up to stay at home! We have been spared by the hostilities and we are lucky to be alive. There’s no point in fighting; We can talk and take each other by the hand”. The sapeurs often advocate this peaceful message. That’s why I, as a photographer, wanted to follow them. Images travel and spread messages. I want to show that a joyful Africa exists.”

Inspired by the Sapeurs and Sapeuseare, we’ve crafted and paired an after-dinner drink to meet this occasion and here’s why. Our Black Girl Magic Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon Red Blend from California is inspired by the great Red Blends, found in the right bank of Bordeaux, France, but remixed by us with our New World expression. We are then going to pair this with Grand Marnier, which is a mix of Cognac (which is a spirit made from wine grapes in France) and Orange liqueur and make a beautiful Sisters Grand Sangria Rouge. We feel like this will complete your after-dinner mood, topped off with a playlist from the artist Fally Ipupa (check out his hits on YouTube)!

The Recipes

Xoxo,

Apr 27, 2021 at 8:00 AM Permalink

Best Red Wine Selection & Pairing Guide | McBride Sisters

We're Feelin' Bold & Boujie

We'll enjoy a great glass of red wine all year round. From a medium-bodied silky Merlot to a full-bodied, rich Zinfandel, we love pairing a glass with a meal on our Wine Wednesday, or as an end-of-the-week wine down. When we have a glass of red wine in hand, we feel bold and boujie — spice up your palate with our all Red Wines set here to taste the differences between the wines & find your favorite red varietal. This wine set with set the mood and it includes our Merlot and Zinfandel - two online exclusive wines that you can only get on the website. Hurry before they're gone!

Apart from being a delicious drink, red wine is said to also have a range of health benefits, with studies finding that the red elixir is not only heart healthy, but it may also help you live longer, and boost your brain function. We’ve also read that red wine can also help you from getting sick. According to a study conducted by the University of Auckland, the antioxidants contained in red wine can reduce the chance of catching a cold. Sign us up!

Aside from all the amazing benefits and taste, how do you decide which red wine is right for you, and what food should you pair it with? We’re here to share the difference between some of the popular red wine varieties, a couple of must-try red wine recipes, and the best food to pair with each. Check out our red wine guide on the best way to maximize each wine. Salut! 

The Red Wines to Know

Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot

Zinfandel

Shiraz/Syrah

Shiraz/Syrah (they’re the same!) produce a dark, heavy-bodied wine that can be peppery, spicy, and bold. With notes of darker fruits such as blackberries and plums, this dry wine has a high level of tannins, which means it can have a high level of health-benefiting antioxidants.

Food pairings: In addition to pairing well with any bold foods, this is one of the rare wines that can also pair perfectly with spicy foods and will actually help enhance the spices in the dish. Alternatively, try balancing out the heavier taste with a charcuterie board containing a range of cheeses to bring out the subtle nuances in the wine. 

Malbec

Similar in flavor profile to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec is an easy-drinking wine that has its origins in France but is now primarily produced in Argentina. The fruit-driven wine has plum and cherry flavors that meet hints of vanilla and tobacco.

Food pairings: Malbec pairs well with lean cuts of meat, such as lamb or sirloin. 

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a popular light-bodied red wine native to Burgundy, France, that is known for its flower and spice aromas which are complemented by a smooth finish. Despite being notoriously difficult to grow, the internationally produced wine is one of the few fruits that is often made into red, rosé, white, and sparkling wine. Typical flavors of a French Pinot Noir will be mushroom, cherry, potting soil, and rose.

Food pairings: Due to its light body and complex structure, Pinot Noir pairs well with most foods. A fruitier Pinot may pair well with a roasted salmon dish or another fatty fish, while a more tannic Pinot can pair well with heavier game such as duck or with a beef stew. 

Have you been enjoying our wine guides? If you're hoping to learn more about the wines you drink, join our McBride Certified Wine 101 community for a wine course to learn all things wine, winemaking, and wine tasting to give you the tools to feel comfortable in any situation. 

Xoxo,

Apr 27, 2021 at 7:00 AM Permalink

The Can Queens

Check out our interview and happy hour chat with Marian on Facebook here, featuring both of our Sauvignon Blanc wines in a can & the best moods or foods to pair them with. 

Meet Marian Leitner-Waldman

Andréa: What would you most like to change about the wine industry?

Marian: Customer centricity. So much of what we are told to like and how we are told to enjoy it is driven by a small group of people. But wine, like all foods, is subjective. I want people to feel empowered and WELCOMED into wine, to explore great wines from around the world and describe how they like them. By doing this, we create a more inclusive and fun industry!

Andréa: Spring is here. When the pandemic subsides, who are you raising your first glass with and why? 

Marian: My girlfriends. So much has happened to us in this past year that we couldn't celebrate together: babies were born, puppies adopted, master's degrees obtained and new companies launched. I have missed drinking too much wine with them and having the heart-to-hearts that can only happen when you're in the same room, feeling the love and support of people you know have your back. I have missed them so much.

Andréa: Tell us about the mentors and those who inspired you on your path.  

Marian: I am so lucky to stand on the shoulders of many incredible women. My grandmother was a fiercely intelligent woman who taught me the power of imagination. My mother taught me that kindness and thoughtfulness can be a powerful legacy. My aunts are badass working mothers who dominated in their fields but always made time for their "chicks" even when I am sure they were exhausted. And my sisters and blood sisters show me time and time again that success is not about personal achievements, but carrying others as you climb. This is how you can combat the loneliness at the top - and ensure someone else has your back when you get there!

Andrea: What is the story behind the name, Archer Roose?

Marian: A rebel and boundary breaker, Archer Roose travels the world living by her own rules. With boundless curiosity, she explores far flung wine regions. Our portfolio of worldly wines tells the stories of the places she visited on her travels. And our logo - her portrait riding her moose - reminds us that adventures, like wine, should be a little whimsical.

Andréa: What advice would you give to women who want to pursue nontraditional careers that combine their work and passions? 

Marian: The single most important quality to success is grit. Be prepared for the marathon ahead but know that the peaks will be the highest high you've ever known.

Andréa: What are you most excited about in your work right now? 

Marian: The team we are building. I am in such awe of the amazing womxn (and mxn!) that I get to work with every day.

Andréa: Which wine varieties or styles are most often on your table? Do you have a favorite MSC wine, and a recipe, cuisine or mood to pair with it? 

Marian: I love the SheCan SauvyB! Perfect pairing for wine walks with friends :)

Thanks for joining us as we chat all things Sauvignon Blanc & how we came to have these delicious wines from the Southern Hemisphere. Shop SHE CAN Wines on our website here and Archer Roose Wines here. 

Xoxo,

Apr 22, 2021 at 5:00 AM Permalink

A Trip Through New Zealand Harvest

We’re heading to the Southern Hemisphere on the blog this month. We love to take you to one side of the world for a glass of deliciousness and then bring you back to California from time to time

As you likely know, the seasons are flipped, so while we just entered Spring here in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s Fall for our winemaking team in New Zealand. Harvesting grapes, or picking the fruit, is the first and most important step of the winemaking process. Whether you’re hand picking or machine harvesting, it takes time, patience and a little bit of intuition. Knowing when to pick the fruit isn’t an exact science — it requires measuring the level of sugar in the grapes (this is called brix) and some degree of gut feeling to know when the grapes are ready, which is usually based on taste.

Our Assistant Winemaker Diana Hawkins is based in New Zealand (you may remember her from our Women’s History Month feature - read it here). We are going to get to see harvest through her eyes. It’s not too often that you get the chance to go behind the scenes with the women at work in the vineyards and winery. But that’s just what we do. Break the rules. Drink the wine.

Winemaking in New Zealand is an art that spans across 10 main wine regions. Hawke’s Bay, Marlborough and Central Otago are areas which all attract a significant amount of wine tourism due to their international reputation for producing excellent wines, and they are where we make our wines at McBride Sisters. 

The McBride Sisters Collection Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc comes from the top of the South Island in Marlborough and the McBride Sisters Collection Sparkling Brut Rosé (available in store only) comes from the Hawke's Bay region in the North Island.

Now let’s catch up with Diana as she heads to Hawke’s Bay for harvest of our McBride Sisters Collection Sparkling Brut Rosé this year. 

Hawke's Bay

Located on the North Island, Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest wine region, with the first plantings of vineyards dating back to the 1850s. It is also the second-largest wine region, with production reaching approximately 41,000 tonnes of fruit in 2018 which is approximately 41 million bottles of wine, according to New Zealand Winegrower’s Annual Report. The temperate climate and excess sunshine, which is moderated by the region's proximity to the sea, make it the perfect area for fruit-growing. 

Source: Audley Travel

The Drive Down

Diana: “The drive down to Hawke’s Bay was stunning, with winding mountain roads and breath-taking views. It’s tucked between the Kaweka and Ruahine ranges and the Pacific Ocean. Like most of New Zealand, the region is geologically active. It borders a geothermal power plant and isn’t far from Lake Taupō, which is, technically speaking, atop a dormant volcano.

When you come down the mountains, the coast finally comes into view. Then, in the blink of an eye, you’re out of the hills and surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Hawke’s Bay is known as the fruit basket of New Zealand. With ample sunshine and warm summer days, fruits and veggies grow abundantly here, including grapevines. Between the farm-fresh produce and award-winning wines, it’s a foodie’s paradise. 

After settling in, I checked out the towns of Hastings and Napier. In 1931, Napier and parts of Hastings were razed to the ground after a 7.8 earthquake. The quake also changed the entire layout of the area, raising some coastal areas by almost 6 feet and turning them into dry land.  When the towns rebuilt, they did so in an Art Deco style. To this day, Napier embraces that era with 1920s themed shops and attractions.” 

We’re Off To The Races

Diana: “The next morning, I joined the team at the winery to get to know some of the vintage (another word for harvest) crew. The first fruit was Pinot Noir from the Twin Rivers vineyard in Te Awanga. The fruit was picked in the vineyard and delivered to us in the winery. We’re working with Pinot Noir grapes first to make our Sparkling Brut Rose. These grapes are picked earlier than other varietals because sparkling wine grapes are picked for flavor and acidity.”

The earlier grapes are picked during harvest, the higher the acidity they will generally have. Acid in sparkling wine gives these crowd pleasers life and vibrancy. 

“The vines themselves were planted on sandy loam soils at a vineyard between the Tukituki and Ngaruroro rivers. The vines were trellised using the Sylvos method, which is pretty unique and something I hadn’t come across before. It’s utilized here because it allows for better airflow and higher quality fruit for sparkling wine.”

From Grapes to Wine

Once fermentation starts, the color of the juice gets paler, the sugar level goes way down, and the key flavors you usually find in the wine start to take shape. It is no longer Pinot Noir juice; it’s officially baby Pinot Noir rosé with an electrifying acid backbone and hints of strawberry and raspberry. A wine that will eventually make our delicious McBride Sisters Collection Sparkling Brut Rosé!” 

The harvest in New Zealand is something very special. The country is unlike any other region in terms of natural beauty and a pureness of place, the climate is simply perfect for the wine styles we produce. Harvest takes a village and we have Diana leading the charge to make sure we craft the most delicious glass of bubbles you will ever taste.

We can’t wait for you to pick up a few bottles of our next release of McBride Sisters Collection Sparkling Brut Rosé that’s being made right now. We hope this look into the winemaking process gives you more of an idea of the work and LOVE that goes into every bottle.

Xoxo,

Apr 12, 2021 at 1:00 PM Permalink

The One & Only Jessica Alba

Not only has she taken on the beauty industry with the goal of providing clean products for all consumers, she’s done so with sustainability at the heart of her company. The Honest Beauty Company was awarded the Pioneer in Sustainability Award by the Sustainable Business Council of Los Angeles. 

She cares about other mothers, the planet and using her platform to raise the voices of other women. We’re in awe of her success and drive. She’s crushing it as a woman in business and in every industry she enters.

Meet Jessica Alba

Robin: When the pandemic subsides, who are you raising your first glass with and why? 

Jessica: I am most looking forward to raising a glass with my extended family -- grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins...the whole fam. I am excited to be surrounded by all those close to me. I have been in a pod with my immediate family, but I look forward to gathering again with everyone I love.

Robin: How is the 2021 International Women's Day theme #ChooseToChallenge meaningful to you? What has challenged you as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

Jessica: This year’s theme of #ChooseToChallenge is meaningful for me because it’s important to use my influence for good, to empower women and smash stereotypes. I recently learned that 73% of women experience bias at work which is completely unacceptable. In my personal experience, I have found that when people aren't used to a female leader, and a strong female leader at that, it takes a lot longer for them to absorb direction and feedback. 

As a business owner, I’m determined to continue to support our female workforce at The Honest Company to ensure they feel safe and empowered, both professionally and personally. At Honest, 68% of our workforce are women and 59% of our leadership team are women -- women are at the core of everything we do! This year, I challenge myself and others to call out gender bias and inequity when we see it. 

Robin: Who has inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as a woman in business and entertainment?

Jessica: Oprah has always been a huge inspiration for me as a leader not only in entertainment and business, but in life in general. 

Robin: How would you define your tribe or sisterhood that has supported you during your path? 

Jessica: My tribe consists of a few extremely close girlfriends. They are more than friends at this point, they are friends that have become family… they are my sisters. I prefer this over having a bunch of acquaintances. I lean on these girls and we are there for each other through both the good and the bad and we love each other unconditionally, as sisters do. 

Robin: What advice would you give to women who want to pursue nontraditional careers that combine their work and passions?

Jessica: You must know every piece of your business model, from the market opportunity to the creative angle to your competitive edge and how you will win in the landscape. It’s also important to pressure test your idea with friends, family and people that you respect in business prior to going out and raising money. And as always, know your numbers. This is key when you are working to turn your passion into a profitable business. 

Robin: How has the pandemic changed your work, industry and outlook?

Jessica: This past year was challenging to say the least, but it reminded me to prioritize what truly matters most, which is my family and loved ones. As we have all been through a lot this past year, it’s important now more than ever for women to lift each other up and to support each other. As a female entrepreneur, I know firsthand how hard it is to start a business for anyone, especially for women. It’s always been my priority to surround myself with other strong women and to give back and support them however I can. For me, it’s about women supporting women by bringing each other up and giving them an equal opportunity and a seat at the table.

Robin: What are you most excited about in your work right now?

Jessica: I am most energized about continuing to build a company and a workplace that people are excited about. My mission is always to create an environment that supports our employees, not only professionally, but personally as well and recognizes them as a whole person, connecting both the head and the heart. 

Robin: Do you have a favorite MSC wine, and a recipe, cuisine or mood to pair with it?

Jessica: SHE CAN is my go-to favorite for myself and to gift to others. The packaging makes it super convenient and, of course, the wine itself is amazing. An outdoor, socially distanced walk with a SHE CAN in hand is my jam.

Xoxo,

Mar 31, 2021 at 6:59 AM Permalink