When winter settles in, there’s nothing more satisfying than a steaming bowl of soup—and when paired with the right wine, that simple comfort becomes something extraordinary. From velvety broths to hearty, slow-simmered classics, the flavors of winter soups come alive alongside thoughtfully chosen wines. Whether you’re cozying up after a cold day or hosting a gathering with friends, the perfect pairing can elevate every spoonful. Here’s how to pair your favorite hearty soups with wines that truly shine.
Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup + Sweet Red Blend
Why it works: The fruity and slightly sweet notes of a sweet red blend, such as Late Nights, Red Heron, or tesoro, complement the earthiness of lentils and root vegetables. The wine’s soft tannins and berry flavors add a layer of richness to the hearty broth.
Pairing tip: Serve slightly chilled to balance the savory flavors of the soup.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup + Viognier
Why it works: The aromatic, floral qualities of Viognier enhance the natural sweetness of butternut squash. Its full-bodied profile and hints of stone fruit make each spoonful more vibrant and aromatic. Try either our delightful Braganini Reserve Viognier or fruity Vee-Own-Yay.
Pairing tip: Chill Viognier slightly for a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture.
Spicy Tomato Soup + Pinot Noir
Why it works: The bright acidity and red fruit flavors of Pinot Noir cut through the acidity of the tomato base. Its subtle earthiness and light tannins complement herbs like basil and oregano often used in tomato soups. A great option for this is our Braganini Reserve Pinot Noir which is currently only available at select tasting rooms.
Pairing tip: Light-bodied Pinot Noir is perfect for balancing the tangy, spicy notes.
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup + Chardonnay
Why it works: The buttery and oaky notes of Chardonnay harmonize beautifully with the richness of chicken and wild rice. The wine’s crisp acidity refreshes the palate with each sip. We offer two sweet Chardonnay wine that we feel you will enjoy for this pairing including our Braganini Reserve Winemaker’s Series Harvest Select Chardonnay and our Trendsetter Chardonnay! Our dry Braganini Reserve Chardonnay is available at select tasting rooms.
Pairing tip: Choose a lightly oaked Chardonnay from for a well-rounded pairing.
Cream of Mushroom or Mushroom Barley Soup + Blanc de Blanc
Why it works: The crisp, bubbly nature of Blanc de Blanc (made from Chardonnay grapes) pairs excellently with earthy mushroom flavors. Its effervescence cleanses the palate, balancing the umami richness. Explore our Braganini Reserve Blanc de Blanc for this pairing!
Pairing tip: Serve well-chilled for a sparkling, refreshing complement.
Sweet Corn Chowder + Sweet White Blend
Why it works: The mellow sweetness and citrus notes of a sweet white blend enhance the comforting creaminess of corn chowder. The wine’s smooth finish balances the richness and adds a touch of fruitiness. We suggest either On the Town, Kindred, or Limelight for this pairing and we are sure it will delight your palate!
Pairing tip: Serve slightly chilled to bring out the wine’s refreshing qualities.
As you explore soup and wine pairings, a few simple guidelines can help ensure success. Start by considering the soup’s main ingredients and seasonings, and look for wines whose characteristics complement or balance those flavors. When in doubt, wines with bright acidity are a reliable choice—they cut through creamy or rich soups and keep each bite feeling fresh. Serve wines slightly below room temperature to highlight their aromas and structure. Most importantly, savor the experience: curl up with a cozy blanket, cue up a winter playlist, and enjoy the simple pleasure of great soup paired with a beautiful glass of wine. Cheers to warming up winter nights with comforting flavors and thoughtful pairings.
