A philosophical frog once said, “It’s not easy being green.” White winemakers hum the same tune because consumer love for clean, clear liquid in their glasses has forced them to filter their whites within an inch of their lives for years.

Truth be told, many grapes we consider white have much darker skins than you might imagine, with the best example being pinot grigio. Unfiltered, your average PG would be a few shades shy of rosé.

One white that wears its colour on its label is Vinho Verde made in the Portuguese province of Minho. Translating to “green wine” its name is really a reference to the bright, refreshing flavours characteristic of the region’s juice more than the pigment of Kermit’s imagination.

Pale straw to the naked eye, Sogrape’s Gazela 2011 Vinho Verde ($8.53 – $11.99) is a zesty, light-bodied wine with a zing of effervescence that tingles the tongue and adds lift to the subtle expression of citrus, lime and grapefruit.

A classic summer wine style, Vinho Verde is perfect with anything that swims or crawls in the ocean and makes a relaxing back deck sipper on a warm afternoon. Prices reflect the range across the country. Some products may not be available in all provinces.

Prices reflect the range across the country. Some products may not be available in all provinces.