By Holli Edwards

Yes, green beer is the most popular libation for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, but this year just might be the year to “go green” in another direction - the wine route!  It can be as easy as adding a little green food coloring to your favorite white or sparkling wine (don’t add too much, or your tongue won’t be the same for a week!)  Or, you can experiment with a new recipe, adding a little mint liqueur or making a wine slush (like the one you see in the photo using a Vineyard Frost wine mix and white wine).

You could also stay away from the food coloring all together and enjoy a traditional Irish wine, a Meade, which is made with honey.  Legend has it that this wine was first made in secret by Irish Monks. It’s popularity spread quickly and was often served at Irish feasts of all occasions, including weddings. The bride and groom were encouraged to consume generous portions of the intoxicating drink, particularly the groom. It was believed that the Meade had powers of virility and fertility. After the wedding, if the bride produced a child nine months after the wedding, credit was given to the Meade.

If you are planning on enjoying the traditional corned beef and cabbage, try a blush wine or a fruity Beaujolais, such as Prairie Berry Winery’s Frontenac 2007.  And, don’t forget to offer a St. Patrick’s Day toast to bring luck and good health!

St. Patrick’s Day Toast

Saint Patrick was a gentleman,
Who through strategy and stealth,
Drove all the snakes from Ireland,
Here’s a toasting to his health.
But not too many toastings
Lest you lose yourself and then
Forget the good Saint Patrick
And see all those snakes again.

‘Beannachtam na Feile Padraig!’
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

An Old Irish Blessing

May love and laughter light your days,
and warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours,
wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world
with joy that long endures.
May all life’s passing seasons
bring the best to you and yours!