Spring: Are We There Yet?

Yesterday, it was 4 degrees Celsius. The sun was shining, there were birds singing, snow was melting and ... could it possibly be true? ... there was GRASS along the side of the road.

Today, they're calling for upwards of 15cms of snow and a wind chill of -26.

Want spring? Can't have it. Quit renting space in my brain, Mother Nature.

If you're feeling as fed up with winter as most Canadians are at this point, then allow me to fill your headspace with springtime delights. All wine-related, of course.

Savvy Company has a tempting line-up of events starting with next week's three-terroir tasting with Anne Sperling and Peter Gamble (March 20, Britannia Yacht Club, Ottawa). Wines from their properties in B.C., Nova Scotia and Argentina will be sampled and available for purchase; the $25 ticket fee can be put towards the purchase of a case.

Then it's County in the City (April 10, Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum, Ottawa) where Prince Edward County winemakers will showcase their latest vintages. What's more, County ciders, cheeses and beers will also be available for tasting.

Speaking of beer, if you haven't heard about Savvy Hip Hops, the newest beer-of-the-month club, then get to it. Beyond the Pale is the highlight for March, followed by Niagara Oast House Brewers in April.

Feeling the travel itch but can't make it far? There's plenty to do during Maple in the County (Picton area, March 21-23), including musical performances, an ice kingdom at the Crystal Palace, a farmers' and artisans' market and more. Oh yeah, and maple syrup. And wine! Don't forget the wine.

The Ottawa Wine and Food Festival is hosting its first-ever Eat, Drink, Spring edition March 29, 1-9 p.m., at the EY (Ernst & Young) Centre. A last-minute addition to the calendar, the event will feature Ottawa's food truck convoy, a 24-foot-long BBQ, and a 'patio living' section.

Get a taste of the Sunshine Coast during the Ottawa leg of the California Wine Fair (April 4, The Westin Ottawa) and then take in a dinner party with Ontario winemakers and Dish Catering at Somewhereness (April 7, Orange Gallery).

If you're planning ahead, save the dates for two stellar back-to-back events: New Zealand in a Glass (May 5, Museum of Nature) and Bon Appetit Ottawa (May 6, EY Centre).