Discovering Hidden Gems: 5 Lesser-Known White Wine Varietals You Need to Try

Not all great white wines come from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. In the world of boutique winemaking, a treasure trove of lesser-known white varietals is waiting to be uncorked. These wines offer a refreshing departure from the ordinary, showcasing unique terroirs, centuries-old traditions, and winemakers who aren’t afraid to break the mould.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast seeking new sensory adventures or a restaurant looking to diversify your list, these white varietals will surprise and delight your palate.

Why Go Beyond the Classics?

Most wine lovers can comfortably name a few white grape varieties off the top of their heads — Pinot Grigio, Riesling, maybe Viognier. But stepping outside of the mainstream opens up a whole new world of flavours and stories. These under-the-radar wines often:

• Offer better value compared to well-known labels.

• Come from low-intervention, sustainable producers.

• Showcase unusual aromas and textures that create memorable pairings.

With Canada’s wine scene becoming more adventurous, it’s the perfect time to broaden your wine vocabulary — and your cellar.

1. Chenin Blanc – Loire Valley’s Shape-Shifting White

If there’s one grape that wears many hats — and wears them all well — it’s Chenin Blanc. This versatile white grape is the flagship of the Loire Valley, capable of producing wines that range from bone-dry and steely to lusciously sweet, with sparkling styles in between.

At its driest, Loire Chenin bursts with green apple, quince, and lanolin, underpinned by racy acidity and a hallmark wet stone minerality. In the hands of low-intervention producers, it transforms into an expressive, terroir-driven wine that ages gracefully for decades.

Boutique wine bars and sommeliers across Ontario are catching on, especially in spots focused on sustainable and organic wines. It pairs beautifully with goat cheese, shellfish, and anything involving apples or leeks.

Try Domaine de l’Enchantoir’s Chenin Blanc here!

2. Furmint – Hungary’s Zesty Showstopper

Famous for its role in the iconic sweet wine Tokaji Aszú, Furmint also produces dry white wines that are absolutely worth seeking out. Dry Furmint is bold, structured, and incredibly food-friendly, often delivering flavours of quince, pear, smoke, and honeycomb.

Ontario’s cooler climate mirrors that of Hungary’s Tokaj region, so this wine fits in beautifully with local cuisine — from charcuterie boards to Ontario trout.

3. Viura – The Underrated Star of White Rioja

Often overshadowed by the red wines of Rioja, Viura (also known as Macabeo) is a white grape variety that deserves a serious second look. Traditionally used in Spain’s Cava blends, Viura shines in still white wines from Rioja, especially when aged in oak — a unique trait that sets it apart from most white wines.

Expect a flavour profile that includes green apple, citrus zest, chamomile, and subtle nutty notes. Aged expressions can develop rich textures, with hints of toast, vanilla, and beeswax, giving them surprising complexity and longevity.

White Rioja is an excellent choice for sommeliers and private collectors alike, particularly those seeking food-friendly wines with a touch of Old World elegance. It’s a natural match for tapas, roast poultry, or Manchego cheese.

At The Daily Pour, you can read more about our Rioja partner Vinos Villota. Try their White Rioja here!

4. Viosinho – Portugal’s Crisp, Character-Driven White

While the Douro Valley is better known for its Port and bold reds, Viosinho is a native white grape quietly gaining ground among boutique producers. Traditionally used in white Port blends, Viosinho is now being bottled on its own — and the results are stunning.

Expect a wine that’s crisp, citrusy, and minerally, often with floral aromatics and a backbone of acidity that makes it incredibly refreshing. When grown at higher elevations, Viosinho develops a zippy edge that reflects its terroir, with subtle notes of grapefruit, peach skin, and herbs.

Small wineries in the Douro are treating Viosinho with care, often using minimal intervention and native yeasts. The result? Wines that are elegant, food-friendly, and full of personality — ideal for pairing with grilled vegetables, seafood, and soft cheeses.

5. Albariño – The Atlantic Charmer

While not entirely unknown, Albariño still flies under the radar in many Canadian cellars. Native to Spain’s Rías Baixas, it’s vibrant, saline, and packed with stone fruit flavours. Pazo Cilleiro’s Albariño is one of the best representations of this unique Spanish varietal!

What sets boutique Albariño apart is its sense of place — small producers often harvest by hand and ferment with native yeasts, resulting in wines with personality and verve. Its lively profile pairs beautifully with fresh oysters, ceviche, and even Thai cuisine.

Final Pour: Let Curiosity Lead the Way

If you’re ready to branch out from the basics and discover something new, these lesser-known white varietals are a perfect place to start. Whether you’re filling your personal wine rack or curating a wine list for your restaurant, embracing the unexpected brings a sense of adventure to every glass.

At The Daily Pour, we’re passionate about connecting our customers with boutique, sustainably-produced wines that tell a story. Many of these hidden gems are featured in our curated cases — designed for both curious drinkers and thoughtful hosts.

👉 Explore our current white wine selections