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. 

Image via feastingathome.com

Get the recipe here.

 

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.

Image via Love & Lemons

Get the recipe here.

 

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

Photo via Sweet Tea and Thyme

Get the recipe here.

 

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,

 

Rosé All Ways

Celebrating National Rosé Day!

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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. 

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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! 

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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!

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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,

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.

Image via jessicainthekitchen.com

Get the recipe here

 

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

Image via jamieoliver.com

Get the recipe here

 

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

Image via bbc.co.uk

Get the recipe here

 

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

Image via olivemagazine.com

Get the recipe here

 

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

Image via olivemagazine.com

Get the recipe here

 

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,

 

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. 

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Xoxo,

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,

Activist. Entrepreneur. Sommelier.

Grace is a global activist and entrepreneur, and the founder and executive director of Project Tsehigh. Over the last six years, Grace and her team at Project Tsehigh have focused on researching and finding renewable energy sources for countries who are lacking the infrastructure. It was after visiting Eritrea, in Eastern Africa, that she realized how many people were living in under-resourced communities without power, driving her to find ways to provide solar energy solutions for communities in need. She’s dedicated, driven and crushing it across many different domains. 

In addition to her activism, she’s also a certified sommelier. As co-owner of Chulita in Venice, California, she curates wine lists and wine experiences within different spaces using her knowledge of wine, keen palate and great taste. Grace is a change agent and we’ve watched in awe as she has focused on leaving the world a better place than she found it, while enjoying the journey along the way.

Meet Grace Mahary

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

Grace: My husband, family, and closest friends I’ve missed over this time.

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

Grace: I love to see the status quo challenged especially when it means freeing up space for those who’ve been marginalized in society. There are countless challenges, but knowing your worth and building confidence have helped me visualize my place in the world.

Robin: Who has inspired you to break the rules or think beyond them as a woman in your industries?

Grace: My mother

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

Grace: They are my outer brain that I consult regularly!

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

Grace: To not doubt themselves, to dive into as much research as possible and to start! (You’ll figure it out as you go.)

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

Grace: It definitely has slowed things down and has made working from home possible. I never thought I could love or live in stillness as I do now.

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

Grace: Continuing to shine light on underrepresented and sustainable artists, winemakers, and game changers whilst making personal discoveries along the way.

Robin: 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? 

Grace: We’re always exploring! My favorite MSC wine is the Central Coastal Red Blend. It's silky and smooth, definitely my Friday night vibe.

Xoxo,

 

 

National Black Girl Magic Day

Let's Celebrate the Magic of Black Women

Image from 'The Colored Girl' campaign photographed by Joey Rosado @islandboiphotography

February 15th marks National Black Girl Magic Day and while we celebrate Black women every day, today we are screaming from the rooftops, around the country and around the globe, to celebrate #BlackGirlMagic and we encourage you to do the same! Black Girl Magic was created by CaShawn Thompson in 2013 when she started the movement #BlackGirlsAreMagic, that has since been shortened and popularized to #BlackGirlMagic — now championed by men and women alike. In an inspiring article for Black History Untold, CaShawn shines a light on Gloria Richardson, civil rights worker and warrior, as one of the inspirations behind the term. The drive and poise that Gloria embodies throughout her time fighting for civil rights is portrayed perfectly in the image of her pushing away a bayonet at a protest in Maryland. Gloria and the power of this image fueled CaShawn to start a women-led revolution of her own, leading to the inception of the #BlackGirlMagic movement. She used digital activism and the beauty of language to celebrate Black women and Black history in a way that had never been done before. Today we raise our glass of Black Girl Magic wine as we toast to CaShawn, Gloria and all of the other women who have made their mark on the world. 

The story behind Black Girl Magic Day, is much the same as the story behind our Black Girl Magic Collection. For us, Black Girl Magic is more than a phrase. It’s a feeling. A look. A mood. A taste. We wanted to create a collection of wines that embody the feeling and the magic of Black women. The mood of this collection is that we’re here, breaking the rules and changing an industry for the better. We’re Black women who have pushed beyond all barriers to provide you with a wine that represents your culture, your story and your mood. This collection is inspired by the Black women in our family, our community, and beyond. These wines are to be enjoyed by all, but are meant to set the tone that Black women will always bring the magic to every occasion.

Today we celebrate all of the amazing Black Women that have come before us, and raise a glass to the queens of the present. Through collections like Black Girl Magic Wines by McBride Sisters, the digital movement of #BlackGirlMagic and this namesake holiday, we aim to amplify the role that Black women have played in this world and set the foundation for future black women to come. 

How should you celebrate? With a great glass of wine and maybe even a few cocktails! Grab a bottle of Black Girl Magic Riesling, call up your girls, and stir up some goodness in a glass with our official Black Girl Magic Riesling Rouge Cocktail!

BGM RIESLING ROUGE

1.5 oz Grand Marnier

3 oz McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Riesling

1 oz Grapefruit Juice

1 oz Club Soda

 

Tag us @blackgirlmagicwines and @grandmarnierusa in your cocktails pics! 

 

Remember that Black Girl Magic Day activities aren’t limited to cocktails and confetti. This day is also about taking a moment, or the whole day, to celebrate yourself too. We’ve put together some of our favorite artists, movies and inspiring women that get us in the mood to celebrate our magic!

Top 5 artists to listen to celebrate with a glass of Black Girl Magic Merlot in hand 

Beyonce - Homecoming at Coachella   

Missy Elliot - Supa Dupa Fly 

Lauren Hill - Miseducation of Lauren Hill 

Aretha Franklin - Young, Gifted and Black 

Jill Scott - Who Is Jill Scott?

 

Top 5 movies to watch to celebrate with a glass of Black Girl Magic Zinfandel in hand 

Hidden Figures 

Foxy Brown 

Waiting to Exhale 

Black Panther 

Harriet  

 

First 5 women to come to mind as you raise a glass of Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut and #CheersToBlackGirlMagic

Katherine Johnson 

Rosa Parks 

Ursula Burns 

Kamala Harris 

Madame CJ Walker 

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Thank you for reading, celebrating and supporting us. We wish you a very happy Black Girl Magic Day!

 

Xo,

 

Valentine's Or Galentine's?

However you're celebrating, make it special!

Happy Valentine’s/Galentines day, lovebirds! Whether you’re coupled up, flying solo, or want to celebrate your love with friends, we’re all for celebrating love in every form possible. Chances are your celebrations may look a little different this year, with social distancing and all, but that doesn’t mean what you organize will be any less fun. You can either recreate some of your favorite V-Day traditions, or have fun with new and exciting ones.

(Read on if you want to spice it up with some new ideas, we sure do!)

For those choosing to have an at-home date, the benefits are endless. No traffic to deal with, reservations to plan, or social distancing rules to abide by. At home, you can make your own rules. 

In the spirit of fuzzy feelings, friendship hugs, and self love, we’ve put together a guide to help you celebrate Galentine’s or Valentine’s Day however you choose to; with your special someone, alone, or with a group of loved ones.

Valentine’s Date Ideas

Virtual or At-Home Wine Tasting

If you were able to order in time, we are hosting Virtual Wine Tasting Event to celebrate Black Girl Magic Day on Monday, February 15. Missed out? Join our mailing list here to get exclusive emails and first chance opportunities to join us for events like this. Sign up because we’ll be hosting many more in the future, that you won’t want to miss! 

For your own virtual tasting event with friends, pick up a couple of different McBride Sisters Collection wines at a store near you and pair them with a delicious cheese board. For a party game, cover the bottles in foil and see what flavors you and your partner or group are able to pick up on from each individual wine, without revealing the bottle.

Get a Birth Chart Reading With Your Valentine’s Partner or Crew

Dabbling in astrology is always a lot of fun, especially when it comes to determining your love or friendship compatibility with those around you. You can find out how your planetary alignments affect your life, and what your sun and moon signs are. Book a reading with Wanica Dunn, an intuitive astrologer and teacher on her site, or Adama Sesay, founder of lilithastrology.com, who also offers readings via her site.

Host a Karaoke Night in Your Living Room 

Mariah, Whitney, Christina, eat your hearts out. Are you ready to belt all of the love song classics virtually with your love gang? Singing releases endorphins, creates a sense of community, and most of all, is a lot of fun! Set up a mic and download an app such as Singing Machine Karaoke, which can be downloaded on your phone and streamed via Google Chromecast. Alternatively, if you’re hosting a virtual Gal’s day, you can use Houseparty to video chat and karaoke simultaneously.

Catch the sunrise (or a sunset) with a picnic

Spending time outside in nature can reinvigorate your soul, while providing the opportunity to connect with those around you. Whether you choose to embark on an all-day hike in a national park, or opt for a shorter local hike or beach walk, your body and soul will thank you for it.

If your team are earlyrisers, plan to get up an hour before sunrise, pack a thermos of hot coffee and some sweets and watch the magic of the sun rising on a new day. For those who prefer to sleep in, you can set out in the afternoon to catch the sunset (be sure to check the closing times if you’re visiting a national park or hiking location, as they often shut before sunset) on top of a mountain or sitting on the beach. Pack a few snacks, fill your thermose with our McBride Grandiosa cocktail, our twist on the classic mimosa!

McBride Grandiosa Ingredients

1.5 oz Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge

2.5 oz Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

1.5 oz McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut

 

Tag us @blackgirlmagicwines and @grandmarnierusa in your cocktails pics!

 

Plan an at-home paint night (with a sexy twist)

What can be more intimate or fun that getting creative and gifting your artwork to your beau or friends? Implement a theme, such as famous historic love stories (platonic or romantic), or love destinations around the world. For something a bit more risqué, try drawing some nude portraits of your partner and seeing how long you each can last without touching each other.  If you’re flying solo, try sketching a nude portrait of yourself while sitting with a glass of wine and looking in a mirror. This will be fun. 

Build a fort, for adults!

For the perfect feel-good Galentine’s celebration, gather up all your pals and release the imagination and wonder of your inner children. Build a blanket fort, hang fairylights and play all the nostalgic flicks from your childhood. Top this off with some childhood snacks, be it s’mores or pop tarts, you decide. Just make sure you bring the wine in!

Pamper Yourself

Nourish your soul and give yourself some TLC. We often get so busy with our lives that we forget to take a moment to love ourselves, and this is your chance to do so. Spoil yourself with a bottle of bubbly, our Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut would be a delicious choice, light a few candles and incense, and relax to some soothing music with a face mask. We love the Oh Whale Aqua Mask by Nolaskinsentials, a Black-owned business that has developed a cult following online. If you have a bath, get those bubbles flowing and let yourself sink into the water and ease out any tension. 

Food & Drink

If you’re in the mood for hors d'oeuvres and nibbles, check out our cheese board recipe. If you’re in the mood for something pre-made, check out one of Karla Ahmed’s beautifully designed grazing boards (available to those in the Bay Area/Tri Valley area). For something more filling, check out this delightfully pink recipe for strawberry ravioli with balsamic and basil or indulge with a plate of creamy masala mussels. For dessert melt into the decadent chocolate fondants with salted caramel sauce.

Image and recipe from Delicious Magazine

 

Wine, of course!

A bottle of Black Girl Magic Rosé is the perfect pink drink to celebrate love. No matter who you're celebrating with, pour a glass of wine to match the occasion. Rosé pairs perfectly with some of our favorite foods. Pick up your favorite tacos to go, order from your favorite Italian resturant or even just make your best mac n cheese recipe. Your rosé will taste delicious with all of the above. 

Red wine is for the lovers. There's nothing more romantic than a great bottle of red wine, even if you're just enjoying it on a night of self-care with yourself. The deep berry, plum and cedar notes of the McBride Sisters Collection Red Blend is the cherry on top to a perfect night. It'll pair with your perfectly cooked steak, grilled lamb chops or even that great lasagna recipe you have. The wine to end every date night, you always want to have a bottle on hand.

If you're wanting to shop locally, find a store near you here. 

Valentine’s Day Love Spritzer Recipe

In the mood for cocktails? Looking for the perfect love-themed drink to get you in the mood? We’ve got the spritzer for you. This love spritzer is the ideal mix of light sparkling brut with fruity flavors to get you feeling pink all over!

Image via 2cookinmamas. View the full recipe here.

Ingredients 

Raspberry infused vodka or raspberry liquor

1 bottle McBride Sisters Collection Black Girl Magic NV California Sparkling Brut

Raspberry cocktail juice (or cranberry as a substitute)

⅛ teaspoon of vanilla extract (per glass)

Fresh raspberries, for garnish

 

Instructions

Tip: if you’re looking to turn your drink into an instant dessert, change the champagne flutes to wine glasses and add a dollop of raspberry or strawberry sorbet. Yum!

And with that, we're going to get our Valentine's/Galentine's Day plans ready. This entire weekend we're celebrating Black Girl Magic is prepartion for Black Girl Magic Day on Monday, February 15th. If you were unable to join our virtual tasting event, sign up for the mailing list next time to be the first to know about events. If you want to try more wines, check out our seasonal and quarterly wine clubs here. Perfect for the wine lover who never wants to run out of wine! We hope you have a safe and lovley weekend!

Xo,

2021: The Year Of The Woman

46th Presidential Inauguration Day

Image from the LA Times

 

Powerful women are all around us. Today we celebrate the ones making history! It is with grace and poise that for the first time, a woman will be the Vice President of the United States. The barriers breakers of our time, Ruther Bader Ginsberg, Hillary Clinton, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Kamala Harris, Ilhan Omar and more are paving the way for the women in this country while also carrying the immense weight of hope for all of womankind. Today, we raise our glass to them. Tomorrow will be a new day for the country and throughout the next four years, we will be able to watch with hopeful eyes, how a woman shapes our nation, our policies and our livelihoods. It is their hardwork and dedication that gives so many of us women, members of the BIPOC community, and our allies; more reason to pop a bottle of Black Girl Magic Sparkling Brut today, in celebration of the 46th Presidential Inauguration. Cheers to 2021: the year of the woman.

It feels like only yesterday that Hillary Clinton opened our eyes to the possibility of having a woman in the White House, when she announced her first presidential campaign aspirations. Her strength, confidence and ambition is exactly what drove six women including Harris, to take on what may be their most important roles in government yet. With our glasses full of bubbles and our hearts full we will see the first Woman, Mixed Race Black and South Asian Vice President be sworn into office. 

Women are in such domination of 2021, that we can’t fit them all into one blog (as much as we would like to!); so we’ve compiled a list of some especially remarkable women in politics to watch in the 117th Congress, and 46th Presidential administration. 

Women to Watch

 

Image from PBS News Hour

 

• Deb Haaland: Otherwise known as Debra Haaland of the Laguna Pueblo Tribe. Deb will be the first ever Indigenous person and Indigenous woman to hold office as a cabinet secretary. Her appointment as head of the Department of the Interior will see a return of authority to Native Americans who were once solely responsible for U.S lands and natural resources. In her acceptance speech for this position she promised, “I’ll be fierce for all of us, for our planet, and all of our protected land” (and we can all cheers to that!).
• Maryland Strickland  (D-WA, 10th District): Like Kamala Harris, Strickland is a Mixed Race woman of Black and Asian descent. She is one of the three first Korean American women in congress, this year. Like some of her female colleagues before her, Strickland is using fashion as a powerful means of expression and politics. For her swearing in ceremony Strickland chose to wear a traditional Korean dress referred to as a hanbok, which was meant to both honor her Korean mother and be a positive reinforcement for representation.
• Nikema Williams (D-GA, 5th District): Williams is not only the first Black woman to chair the Georgia Democratic Party but she will also be the first woman to represent her district. She is following in the footsteps of the late representative John Lewis. 

In 2021, we are seeing the most women ever in the House of Representatives. See the full list of Women to Watch from Politico here. 

The roster of impressive women across Congress and the White House could go on, and on...as it should! 104 years after Jeanette Rankin became the first woman to be sworn into Congress, there are 26 women in the Senate, and 118 women in the House of Representatives. As if a historic 144 women in the Capitol aren’t reason enough for 2021 to be the year of the woman, President Biden has surrounded himself in the sound advice of over 2 dozen powerful female minds, not including our Madame Vice President Kamala Harris! Regardless of our political values, American women have come together to let the world know: #SHECAN canned wine and she will. As she has said before, she may be the first but she certainly will not be the last.

So today it feels even better to raise a glass of wine from a Black-women-owned business. A toast to women, trail blazers like Kamala Harris, Stacey Abrams, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Deb Haaland, and ourselves! With no glass-ceiling to hold us back, the sky's the limit. 

Xoxo,

 

 

The McBride Sisters Guide to Sauvignon Blanc

An Origin Story

A wine that represents the heritage and beauty of New Zealand, where Andréa was raised. The McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc (or Sauv Blanc if you're feeling friendly!) is an ode to one of the most breathtaking wine regions of the world, Marlborough. Located on the northeastern side of the South Island, this dry cooler climate has earned it's spot on the map by producing some of the most delicious Sauvignon Blancs. Notable of crisp acidity, gorgeous green notes and soft tropical fruits. A versatile white wine that pairs with our favorite dishes and represents a piece of the incredible story that brought Andréa into the wine world!

The Sauvignon Blanc Grape

Sauvignon Blanc, a green-skinned grape variety, originates from the Bordeaux region of France and produces a dry, crisp white wine. In the 1880s, the first Sauvignon Blanc cuttings were brought to California, the location of McBride Sisters Collection headquarters. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the grape was first introduced to New Zealand, where the McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc is grown and made. In 1979, Sauvignon Blanc wine was first commercially produced on New Zealand shores and is now the country’s most widely planted variety. Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is one of our favorite types of sauvignon blanc. In terms of Sauvignon Blanc aging, this type of white wine can be enjoyed young or for up to 5 years or so depending on the producer. 

Besides California and New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc is also cultivated in France, Chile, Romania, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and Washington state. We love a world traveler! 

This varietal can grow in many different regions varying in climate. These temperature differences influence the wine significantly. Cooler climates produce wine with high acidity and flavors of grass, green bell peppers, passion fruit, and floral notes. Sauvignon Blanc taste and primary flavors are lime, green apple, tropical fruit, and white peach. The flavor palate ranges from zippy lime to flowery peach. 

The Sauvignon Blanc grape is unique due to its aromatic organic compounds called “pyrazines” give the wine its herbaceous flavors of bell pepper, jalapeño, gooseberry, and grass. Sauvignon Blanc’s acidity level is medium to medium-high. 

Similar varieties include: Verdejo, Albariño, Colombard, Grüner Veltliner, Verdicchio, Vermentino, Tocai Friulano, Savignan (rare), Traminer, and Sauvignon Vert (rare).

The Perfect Pairing

Sauvignon Blanc does not particularly benefit from aging, so there’s no need to wait to open a bottle. We'd suggest serving Sauvignon Blanc at “cellar temp” (about 50 to 60 degrees). When it comes to chilling white wine, there are two options. You can either leave it in the fridge for several hours, or you can put it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. If the girls are on their way, pop that bottle in the freezer and you’re good to go. 

What to pair with Sauvignon Blanc? Luckily for us, Sauvignon Blanc has a variety of foods that mutually complement each other. 

• Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! Sauvignon Blanc’s zing enhances the citrus and garlic-based sauces used for seafood, shellfish, and white fish. It is also one of the only wines that works well with sushi. One of our favorite sauvignon blanc food pairing is with fresh seafood.
• By now you know that the Sauvignon Blanc flavor profile has herbaceous notes. These pair well with similar green herbs like parsley, rosemary, basil, cilantro, mint, tarragon, thyme, fennel, dill, and chives. Other “non-green” spices include white pepper, coriander, turmeric, and saffron.
• Meat lovers, unite! Perfect white meat pairings are chicken and turkey. 
• What to eat with Sauvignon Blanc? We love a delectable cheese board. Try Sauvignon Blanc with softer, briny, and sour cheeses like goat’s milk cheese.
• Don’t worry, we didn’t forget about the veggies! Pair these vegetarian dishes with Sauvignon Blanc: asparagus quiche, cucumber dill yogurt salad, white bean casserole with zucchini, and green hummus.
• Now that you’re a Sauvignon Blanc expert, put your knowledge to the test and describe sauvignon blanc to your friends at the next happy hour. Kick back with a bottle (or two) of crisp, clean Sauvignon Blanc! Visit our Wine Shop to explore our wines. 

This is more than just a wine, it's an origin story. Order a bottle of the McBride Sisters Collection Sauvignon Blanc in the store here or find our wines near you on the store locator here. If you want to taste through the Collections, check out our Wine Club to recieve hand curated wines sent directly to you quarterly.

Xoxo,