Madeira has a fascinating history and is well known for being the dominate “toasting” wine option for our nation’s Founding Fathers. To begin with, the island of Madeira served as a well-known port for various shipping routes going to and from the New World. England had specific legislation (“The British Navigation Act”) in place that ultimately prevented the exportation of wine (and other goods) to British colonies in the New World, unless it came on a British vessel and originated from a British port of call. However, the island of Madeira was exempt from this pesky law and Madeira became a “staple” wine on the vessels bound for the American colonies. Madeira was soon to become one of the Founding Father’s favorite wines to toast such monumental occasions as the Declaration of Independence, Washington’s inauguration, the celebration of establishing Washington D.C. as the nation’s capital and so on. What is really fascinating about Madeira, is that for a price, you can still acquire a Madeira that has a vintage date back to the colonial era! Find one at the Rare Wine Co.

If you are looking for a little red, white and blue in your Independence Day beverages, then the "Patriot" sangria has got you covered. This festive Sangria is perfect for the Fourth of July or any summer cookout! The white wine, red raspberries or strawberries and blueberries give the sangria both its color and flavor theme, but it's the dash of Limoncello that adds zest and vibrancy to the recipe. Check it out for yourself here.

Homemade granola is so much better than the variety in the store, and so easy to make! Granola makes a great snack (even kids like it) or breakfast cereal. Plus it tends to be on the healthy side with oats and nuts and naturally sweetened with dried fruit, honey and maple syrup. Good stuff to keep on hand in the pantry. Check out the recipe for Homemade Granola.

This delicious rib recipe is done in Kansas City barbecue style and comes from our friends at Oklahoma Joe's Barbecue and Catering. Good ribs take a long time to cook at low heat to get that tender, pull off the bone experience but it's worth the wait. Slaughterhouse Five refers to Joe's award-winning BBQ team. I'm not certain if he named it after the book by Kurt Vonnegut. I'll have to ask. Go to the recipe for Slaughterhouse Five BBQ Ribs.