January brings with it a deep chill, particularly in the northeastern United States, where winter feels endless. While many seek solace indoors, there’s a delicious way to embrace the season—savoring hearty soups paired with delightful wines. This annual savory celebration, recognized as National Soup Month since 1984, invites us not only to create warming bowls of comfort but also to raise our glasses to the delightful beverage companions that enhance the experience. As a lifelong winter enthusiast growing up in the frosty realms of northern Vermont, I’ve come to treasure simple yet effective ways to navigate the bleak midwinter months.
One of my all-time favorite soup recipes—ideal for the depths of winter—features an umami-rich blend of cabbage, leeks, and potatoes. This satisfying dish emerges from the pages of the New York Times. When creating this masterpiece, the textures and flavors meld into a delightful harmony, enhanced further by a seasonal salad and crusty bread. Additions like seared turkey kielbasa elevate this otherwise straightforward soup into something truly special; its savory profile perfectly complements the chosen wines.
The base of cabbage and potatoes serves not just as a canvas but also as a vehicle for an array of flavors, particularly when combined with the right ingredients. The delightful crunch of the cabbage contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy texture of the potatoes, creating a hearty dish that embodies the essence of winter comfort food. While some may opt for a vegetarian version, the addition of savory meats can transform the meal into a rich experience.
Choosing the right wines to accompany your soup can elevate the dining experience to new heights. I often gravitate towards white wines, preferably those with round and savory profiles. A few of my recommendations for this winter soup lineup include selections with characteristics that align with both the dish and the season.
Classical pairings are essential: you should look for wines that can enhance the dish’s natural flavors without overshadowing them. For instance, a 2022 Bartholomew Estate Rhone-style blend offers a fragrant blend of yellow cherry and apple, leaving distinct herbal impressions that harmonize beautifully with the soup’s elements. Sipping on this while enjoying the soup creates a delightful sensory experience that resonates on a cold January evening.
When venturing into the world of white wines, the intriguing Falanghina from Bella Sirena offers a refreshing take, presenting tropical aromas that invigorate the senses. This archetype of an Italian white showcases crispness, with nuances of citrus and orchard fruit, underscoring the freshness of a winter salad accompanying your meal.
Similarly, exploring an Albarino from Bodega Bouza can be a real treat. With its medium-bodied richness and notes of apple and grilled pineapple, this wine provides a compelling contrast to the savory richness of the kielbasa. Alternately, the Cala Bennati Pinot Grigio brings complexity with its unexpected roundness, moving well into the savory realm—characteristics that gracefully complement the heartiness of winter recipes.
In addition to tasting exceptional, supporting sustainably farmed wines adds another layer of enjoyment to the endeavor. Domaine de Brize’s Chenin Blanc presents a fine case, crafted by fifth-generation winemakers who integrate traditional practices with modern sustainability efforts. The wine’s round, waxy notes of yellow fruit echo a commitment to the land and climate, linking the meal to its origins.
A personal favorite, Familia Deicas Atlantico sur Albarino, offers a coastal influence with a delightful saline quality—a perfect union with the richness of turkey kielbasa. Enjoying these wines creates a narrative that connects the cuisine with its roots, enhancing appreciation for both the wine and the meal.
As January unfolds and the cold envelops the landscape, surround yourself with warmth and comfort embodied through the duo of savory soups and crisp, refreshing white wines. From rustic preparations of cabbage soups to elevated palate combinations, the process of choosing and enjoying these dishes offers not just flavor but solace in the heart of winter.
Embrace National Soup Month and transform the accompanying experience with thoughtful wine selections, bridging flavors and enriching gatherings. By carefully curating hearty recipes and delightful wines, you can transform the existence of winter into a season of culinary joy, where the kitchen becomes a haven against the winter chill.