With today's winter solstice, the days start getting longer. But a better way to bring some springtime to our lives is with a fresh, energetic white wine like the 2013 'Ca'Stella' Friuli Latisana Pinot Grigio ($12). A beautiful floral-and-citrus nose and refreshing grapefruit flavors are hallmarks of this northern Italian white. Dryness and sweetness vie through the midpalate and finish. A crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings, this wine also plays well with shrimp and calamari.

Available at Zipp's, France 44 and MGM Forest Lake.

BILL WARD