January may not be the most glamorous month on the calendar, but it is a time of warmth, comfort, and rejuvenation. Officially deemed National Soup Month by the Campbell’s Soup Company in 1984, this is a time to embrace the hearty soups that serve as the cornerstone of winter culinary delights. For anyone who has spent a winter in a colder climate, the necessity of crafting a soothing bowl of soup becomes abundantly clear. As the chilling winds blow outside, there is something unbelievably rewarding about enjoying a steaming bowl of savory goodness—the sort that nourishes the body and soul.
Growing up in the frostbitten landscapes of northern Vermont, I learned early on the importance of having warm sustenance to survive the biting cold. Soup-making became more than a necessity; it evolved into a cherished ritual that transformed chilly evenings into cozy celebrations. Now that I find myself as a seasoned adult, I’ve discovered another dimension to this age-old practice: the pairing of wine with soup. This fusion not only heightens the dining experience but also elevates the simple act of cooking to an art form.
Among my favorites is a delightful soup inspired by a beloved recipe from The New York Times. This particular concoction features the robust flavors of cabbage, leeks, and potatoes. This healthy blend creates an umami-rich broth that bursts with flavor. Combining it with a fresh winter salad and crusty artisan bread lays the foundation for what could easily become a cherished gathering with friends, satisfying both cravings and social appetites alike.
My unique twist on the classic recipe introduces seared turkey kielbasa, which not only infuses the soup with a savory and salty punch but harmonizes seamlessly with the wine selections. Additionally, I discovered another adaptation on simplyscratch.com—a version that leans into chunkier textures, catering to varying palates and preferences.
No culinary masterpiece is complete without the right accompaniments, and winter soups are no exception. In selecting wines to complement my hearty creations, I focus on round and savory whites that accentuate the flavors inherent in my winter staples.
Consider the Bartholomew Estate 2022 from Sonoma. This Rhone-style blend of 70% Marsanne and 30% Roussanne opens with an intriguing savory aroma, evolving into notes of yellow cherry and apple. The final elegance is marked by the garrigue character, featuring hints of menthol and eucalyptus, leaving one yearning for more after each sip.
Another delightful option is the Bella Sirena Falanghina 2022 from Beneventano IGP. Encased in a beautifully designed bottle, the wine reveals tropical and citrus blossom aromas that echo the sun-kissed landscapes of its origin in Campania, Italy. Its crisp, dry nature with high-toned white-orchard fruit flavors is the embodiment of freshness needed to cut through the richness of a winter soup.
In exploring the offerings from Uruguay, Bodega Bouza Vinedos Albarino 2024 highlights the balance between plush richness and bright acidity. Its tropical notes of apple, peach, and grilled pineapple unveil a delightful complexity that transcends seasonal pairings.
Emerging from unexpected origins, the Cala Bennati Pinot Grigio 2023 from Friuli presents a winter-appropriate twist to a traditionally seasonal wine, showcasing a surprisingly warm and savory character that suits the rich cabbage and kielbasa wonderfully.
As the ensemble of soup and wine grows, the choices become more intriguing. The Domaine Curry Sauvignon Blanc 2023 from Napa Valley is smooth and tropical, yielding tart lime and grapefruit notes. The absence of the common green pungency makes it an excellent match for a simpler vegetable soup or even elaborate seasonal salads.
Similarly, the Domaine de Brize Les Gris, Anjou Blanc, Loire’s classic Chenin Blanc delivers a refined and waxy yellow-fruited experience, perfect for elevating substantial dishes. On the other hand, Familia Deicas Atlantico sur Albarino 2024 from Uruguay is ocean-inflected, bringing a saline twist that beautifully complements the soup’s hearty elements.
For an approachable weekday wine, the Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc/Sauvignon Blanc 2023 proves to be a reliable choice. Its balance of ripe flavors and moderate pricing makes it an ideal option for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Finally, the Inama Carbonare Soave Classico 2021 offers a savory and mineral-rich experience, showcasing the indigenous Garganega grape that thrives in Italy’s volcanic soils. Its versatility supports a variety of winter dishes, enriching any gathering around the dinner table.
Thus, as we embrace the depths of January, let National Soup Month be a joyful reminder of the comfort food that can transform chilling nights into instances of warmth and camaraderie. Balancing savory soups with carefully selected wines not only enhances each bite but also invites the opportunity to come together with friends and family—creating cherished memories around the dinner table, one warm bowl at a time.