Spring is a time of new beginnings. As all the tiny plants begin to poke their heads from the ground, many of us are filled with a renewed sense of hope and excitement for the warmer months ahead. I always love spring for the pending local produce we’re about to enjoy. And although we’re still a little ways away from enjoying fiddleheads and asparagus, it doesn’t feel too soon to start cracking the cap on whites and rosés more often than not.

Since spring is all about new beginnings, it’s also the perfect time to try something new. Take a break from the regular Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs and whet your palate with some of the many more unusual white wines out there. Here are a few picks that are currently available in the Vintages section of the LCBO. And if that’s not enough inspiration for you, check our event listings for an upcoming class at the Urban Element on May 9^th that features unusual white wines from around the world.

LAURENZ UND SOPHIE SINGING GRÜNER VELTLINER 2007 (VINTAGES 87627 | $18.95 | Austria)

Grüner is one of my all-time favourite wines, because it has such a perfect balance between ripe fruit, savoury spice, and nutty minerality. It’s incredibly food friendly, and this one, as the name implies, truly sings on your palate. If you can’t find this particular Grüner, try another one – they are only made in Austria.

DOMAINE DU PETIT COTEAU LES GRENOUILLES SEC VOUVRAY 2007 (VINTAGES 106815 | $17.95 | Loire, France)

Vouvray is an appellation in the Loire Valley in France and is made with the Chenin Blanc grape. It’s crisp and refreshing with a balance between fruity and minerally flavours. This one is organic and lovely paired up with simply prepared freshwater fish.

DOMAINE DE GOURGAZAUD VIOGNIER 2007 (VINTAGES 734533 | $15.95 | Midi, France)

Viognier is one of my favourite white grapes – it makes luscious, full-bodied wines with sweet, honeyed aromatics and juicy tropical fruit flavours. Try this one on its own for a lovely patio wine, or pair it up with seared scallops or crab cakes with mango salsa.

IRONSTONE VINEYARDS OBSESSION SYMPHONY 2007 (VINTAGES 355784 | $14.95 | California, United States)

Symphony is a grape that was created by crossing Grenache Gris with Muscat. The result is a floral, fruity, off-dry white that screams summertime. Because it’s got a touch of sweetness it’s great paired up with spicy foods (think spicy seafood off the grill) and it’s also perfect for Sunday brunch on the back deck.