Summer 2026 Vol. 6 No. 2
Summer is always special, but given the extra harsh weather most of the country experienced at some points this past winter, people are most eagerly awaiting the season. It’ s high time for warmth, fun and relaxation.
While Memorial Day may be the unofficial start to summer, we’ re in favor of moving that up to May 5— Cinco de Mayo. The holiday— commemorating the day the Mexican army defeated the French in a battle at Puebla, rather than Mexican Independence Day— has become a huge holiday in the U. S.
Why? It’ s a great reason to indulge in Mexican food, festive music, dancing, beer and cocktails. Margaritas rule for Cinco de Mayo( and let’ s face it, for most every occasion), and we’ ve got some great tips from chef / caterer Meg Walker on how to make them even better.
Looking for agave-spirit cocktails beyond the Margarita? Our Signature Cinco cocktail on page 16 will provide plenty of fresh ideas for shaking things up.
Our summer drinks roundup couldn’ t be more refreshing. The recipes incorporate various spirits, with fresh juices, fruits and herbs.( One cocktail even calls for a handful of fresh arugula— see page 9 for more!)
For summer wine-pairing suggestions, the Wine Institute in Sacramento, CA, offers up some wine country-inspired dishes made with fresh produce and other sustainable ingredients. These recipes— from salad to dessert— will naturally pair perfectly with California wines.
If you need general wine recommendations, our panel submits their picks for wines priced at less than $ 30. And if you’ re ready to geek out on wine, Marnie Old explains the carbonic maceration winemaking technique on page 8.
We also look at Napa and Sonoma wine tourism, the trend of hotels offering their own house beers, and much more.
The summer season brings much to look forward to, and we’ re here to help you make it one of your best. Cheers!
Melissa Dowling Editor
SWEET SUMMERTIME
I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Email your comments to mdowling @ epgacceleration. com
EDITOR Melissa Dowling
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MANAGING EDITOR Kyle Swartz 763-383-4447 kswartz @ epgacceleration. com
ASSOCIATE MANAGING ART DIRECTOR Nicole Siewert nsiewert @ epgacceleration. com
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Marnie Old
NATIONAL ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR Debbie Rittenberg
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SALES ASSOCIATE Sherai Falcon sfalcon @ epgacceleration. com( 763) 383-4423
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REPRINTS Bernadette Wohlman bwohlman @ epgacceleration. com 763-383-4464
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