Since the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, Mexican food has emerged as a complex fusion of European and Mesoamerican cooking styles. The cuisine heavily surrounds cultural traditions, including Day of the Dead and religious holidays.

This Sunday, many will celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The day recognizes May 5, 1862, when the Mexican army unexpectedly defeated the French in the Battle of Puebla. In the state of Puebla, May 5^th is an official holiday. However, Mexico does not observe the date as a national holiday. Many Americans confuse Cinco de Mayo with Mexico’s Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16^th.

Cinco de Mayo originated in the U.S. when Mexican-Americans honored the first five years of battles for freedom during the American Civil War. Today, it is an international celebration of Mexican pride. There are many fiestas thrown, highlighting cultural traditions and food.

With soulful and earthy flavors, Mexican cuisine has become a favorite in the American food scene. There are iterations of it throughout the Southwest, most notably in Texas (Tex-Mex), and home-cooks have shared easy spins on Mexican classics. Cinco de Mayo is the perfect time to try out your Mexican favorite, whether it be tamales or enchiladas, there’s always something for everyone!

This modified enchilada recipe is perfect for easy entertaining. It requires few ingredients, and is served like a casserole right out of a skillet. Add your favorite accoutrements like sour cream, cilantro or guacamole and serve. It’s a healthier alternative and pairs wonderfully with a semi-dry white, like Traminette. For the margarita-love, substitute white wine for tequila in this recipe. Pair with a sweeter white like Vignoles to bring out the citrusy flavor.

As we celebrate America’s birthday, we toast to this great country’s history and achievements. July Fourth is the perfect time to commemorate our nation and the foods and fantastic wines that are grown and produced on native soil.

While you’re celebrating this Independence Day we suggest sticking with a traditional American menu of burgers, steak and chicken, along with all-American wines. Whether you’re barbecuing with family, picnicking with friends or watching the fireworks from your backyard, these time-honored meals and delicious wines below are sure to make your celebration a success!

Fried chicken
Fried chicken is a succulent staple at many picnics. Try it fried on the skillet or in the oven. Serve it up with a Missouri Sparkling wine, as the bubbles cut through the crispy fried skin nicely. A Traminette will also pair well. Traminette and Sparkling wine will also complement many picnic sides, such as classic creamy coleslaw. Check out this story for more spotlight-stealing side dishes.

Burgers
For these tender, juicy beef burgers, pair with a medium-bodied, rich Chambourcin. Because this is an all-American festivity, be sure to toss Missouri-grown beef patties on the grill. Load them up with fresh (local!) lettuce, tomatoes and onions, and you’re set.

Hot Dogs
There is nothing like a plump all-beef hot dog nicely charred on the grill. You can serve these the traditional way – in a fresh, fluffy bun piled with condiments – or slice them up and serve as an appetizer with various dipping sauces. There are plenty of imaginative ways to top your “dogs” too! Sip on Catawba or Vidal with this barbecue classic.

Steak
A bold glass of Norton will go great with local steak. This classic salt-and-pepper rib eye can be grilled with or without the bone. For maximum juiciness, this recipe suggests searing the meat then letting it rest before returning it to the grill. Click here for more tips on grilling steak. 

Vegetarian
For a no-meat option, try this grilled eggplant sandwich. Vidal will pair well with the fresh mozzarella and basil while a medium-bodied red such as Chambourcin will complement the slightly smoky, grilled eggplant.

Dessert
Pie is delicious year round, but there’s something about summer that lends itself to the flaky crust and gooey filling of the freshly baked dessert. Use Missouri nuts in this pecan pie and local berries in this blackberry cobbler. Pair your Fourth of July all-American dessert with a fruit wine or a sweet dessert wine.