Every year on March 17, people around the world embrace shamrocks, leprechauns and the color green to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The holiday, which honors the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland, has been observed for more than 1,000 years. However, the first St. Patrick's Day parade wasn't held until 1762 when Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through the streets of New York City.

A traditional Irish feast is a great way to get into the festivities. Locally-sourced ingredients like meat, potatoes, bread and root vegetables are common in Ireland's cuisine. Lucky for you, Missouri's award-winning wines are a great match for these hearty foods.

Corned beef served with cabbage is a popular meal on St. Patrick's Day. The salty and slightly sweet flavors of this tasty combination are satisfying with a full-bodied Norton. A bottle of rich Norton also goes well with hearty lamb stew packed with meat, carrots and potatoes. The earthy, fruit-forward flavors in Chambourcin compliment the ground lamb or beef, vegetables and mashed potatoes in a shepherd's pie casserole.

If you prefer something lighter, try smoked Irish salmon on slices of brown soda bread with a glass of sparkling wine or Traminette. Decadent Guinness black and white chocolate mousse is delicious with the intense flavor of a Late Harvest or port-style dessert wine.

Missouri wines pair well with St. Patrick's Day!