January brings with it an air of coziness synonymous with the joys of winter, and nothing resonates with the soul in this season quite like a hearty bowl of soup. Designated as National Soup Month by the Campbell’s Soup Company in 1984, January has become the time to celebrate and enjoy the myriad flavors that warm us against the cold. For many, including those of us who have braved the winter’s bite in environments like northern Vermont, soup-making is not just a seasonal tradition; it is a steadfast companion in enduring the cold months. As I wander through the months of frost and freezing temperatures, I find solace not only in the comforting warmth of a stew but in the delightful art of wine pairing to elevate these meals.
The Allure of Winter Soups
Soups embody the essence of warmth, intimacy, and comfort food, making them an integral staple during winter. My go-to recipe features a rich combination of cabbage, leeks, and potatoes, thoughtfully blended to create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying to the palate. The incorporation of seared turkey kielbasa adds a savory, salty punch, enhancing the flavor profile and delivering a delightful contrast to the umami richness of the soup. This concoction is versatile enough to star on its own or serve as an elegant course alongside a winter salad and crusty artisan bread, transforming any kitchen-table dinner into a cozy gathering.
The synergy of flavors in winter soups is amplified when accompanied by carefully selected wines. My winter line-up primarily highlights round and savory white wines that enhance the inherent flavors of the soup. One of my favorite discoveries is a 2022 Rhone-style blend from Bartholomew Estate in Sonoma. This wine captivates the senses with a savory bouquet, seamlessly transitioning from notes of yellow cherries and apples to hints of garrigue—a Mediterranean scrub that evokes menthol, eucalyptus, and herbal complexities.
As the days inch towards spring, wine selections can bewilder many, especially when deciding what to serve alongside warming soups. The 2022 Bella Sirena Falanghina from Beneventano IGP introduces fresh, lively tropical and citrus aromas, derived from grapes found in the sun-drenched region of Campania, famous for its volcanic landscape—without contention, it makes a delightful companion for lighter soups. On the other end of the spectrum, I found the 2024 Albarino from Bodega Bouza, hailing from Uruguay, to be equally rewarding. Its delicate blend of apple, peach, and a flush of Atlantic-influenced essence helps bridge the rich, umami flavors of my beloved dishes.
The unexpected richness of the 2023 Cala Bennati Pinot Grigio from Friuli particularly stands out. Familiar to many as a summer wine, this particular vintage offers a depth of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the textures in hearty cabbage-based soups. Lively lemon notes mingle with a weighty mouthfeel, establishing an unanticipated yet satisfying comfort that mirrors cold winter nights.
Another noteworthy mention is the 2023 Domaine Curry Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley. Eschewing the typical grassy profiles common in many New World expressions, this blend boasts smoother tropical tones, offering a refreshing yet grounded experience. Meanwhile, the classic Chenin Blanc produced by Domaine de Brize in the Loire serves as a testament to sustainable farming practices. The round and waxy nature of its yellow-fruited character pairs remarkably well with roasted winter vegetables, proving the versatility of wine in complementing comfort foods.
Switching gears, the 2024 Familia Deicas Atlantico sur Albarino from Uruguay offers a salinity that mirrors the oceanic proximity of its vineyard and works seamlessly with robust, savory flavors. The weeknight friendly blend of Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc from Healdsburg bears testament to the harmonious balance between affordability and quality. Its tropical-fruit notes resonate with the sweetness of caramelized vegetables—an excellent entry point for those looking to explore the profound world of winter wines.
Finally, a personal treasure is the 2021 Inama Carbonare Soave Classico from Veneto. It encapsulates the essence of its volcanic soil origins with its mineral-inflected, savory flavors of Garganega—proving time and again that Italian whites are perfectly adapted to enhance the diversity of winter soups.
As we embrace National Soup Month, let us celebrate the alchemical transformation that results from the marriage of hearty soups and expressive wines. This winter, allow yourself to delve into a world of flavors that not only warm the body but also soothe the spirit. Whether it be a simmering pot of cabbage soup or an exquisite glass of Albarino, winter is a time to relish in comfort, creativity, and camaraderie—full bellies and warm hearts await.
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