This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).

Whenever I come across a watermelon adorned with black seeds, it instantly transports me back to my childhood, spent in my grandparents backyard in the South. As a young child, I would eagerly slice open the fruit, and the sweet, refreshing juice would cascade down my elbows, prompting me to scamper away from the buzzing bees drawn to the sugary delight. My memories are vivid, recalling two sets of grandparents who lived off the land: one couple operated a livestock farm replete with chickens, cows, and pigs, while the other cultivated a rich produce garden. Their homesteads in North Carolina and Maryland were a testament to a life well-lived, full of natures bounty.

One culinary tradition that stands out from those cherished memories is my grandmother's unique barbecue chicken, which is a staple in North and South Carolina. Unlike the smoked barbecue styles commonly found elsewhere that use mesquite or hickory, her version is distinctly pickled and vinegary. She prepares a whole chicken, meticulously chopping it into pieces, and roasts it in a pan with just a hint of vinegar, resulting in a dish reminiscent of pulled pork. This recipe is a family treasure, passed down through generations, and though all of us kids and grandkids have tried our hand at it, none can replicate Grandma's magic! Accompanying the chicken, she would whip up collard greens, kale, and turnips, which she affectionately calls 'salad.' We often enjoyed these hearty meals with mashed potatoes or rice. Furthermore, she introduced us to the rich flavors of Brunswick stew, crafted in an imposing black cauldron outdoors, where she would stand over an open flame, stirring with a wooden stick. Remarkably, she just celebrated her 100th birthday and continues to prepare these family favorites for us!

Traveling beyond my childhood roots, I found myself in the enchanting city of Rome, where every meal was a delightful experience paired with exquisite wine. Despite indulging in an array of bread, pasta, and pizza, I marveled at the absence of weight gain. The reason? The local cuisine is largely devoid of preservatives, with a focus on freshness that left me feeling neither bloated nor heavy. Dining in Rome felt akin to returning to my grandmother's kitchen, where the warmth and love of home-cooked meals permeated every restaurant. My culinary adventure continued in Capri, where I visited Da Paolino Lemon Trees a picturesque locale under sprawling lemon trees. There, I savored fresh crustaceans and langoustines sourced directly from the ocean, leading me to dream of relocating to Italy, drawn by its gastronomic allure.

My travels also took me to the vibrant island of Bali, where the vegan offerings were nothing short of astonishing. The creativity displayed in transforming jackfruit had me convinced I was savoring steak. Unlike the American trend of crafting faux meats, the Balinese truly embraced the essence of plant-based cooking, utilizing real fruits, vegetables, and legumes to create delectable dishes. At Gdas Bali Health and Wellness Resort, I was treated to 'tuna' sushi made from sliced papaya, marinated in a fish-like sauce and served atop rice with seaweed. Surprisingly, I did not miss fish at all; it was an extraordinary experience that challenged my perceptions of vegan cuisine.

In my explorations of beverages, I discovered the versatility of Moscato, a delightful wine that can stand alone or serve as a base for cocktails. For those not fully committed to wine, it's an accessible introduction, thanks to its balanced sweetness. Recently, when I got my hands on a bottle of Seven Daughters Moscatoa collaboration between Taraji P. Henson and Terlato Wine GroupI felt inspired to create a refreshing Sunday afternoon cocktail. I blended it with a mix of pineapple and coconut juices, added some shaved coconut, and garnished with fresh pineapple slices, resulting in a drink reminiscent of a tropical, unfrozen pia colada. This wine pairs wonderfully with nearly any dish, leading us to concoct what weve playfully dubbed 'Tarajiritas'!

Taraji P. Henson, the acclaimed Golden Globe-winning actor and New York Times bestselling author, serves not only as the creative force behind Seven Daughters wine but also as a strategic advisor, further enriching the brand's identity with her creative vision.