When it comes to pairing wine with soup, there are a few key factors to consider. The first is the flavor profile of the soup itself. Is it spicy, savory, or creamy? Does it have any dominant ingredients or spices? These factors will help guide your wine selection.
If your soup has a spicy kick to it, like chili powder or dried peppers, it's best to choose a wine with a touch of sweetness to balance out the heat. Riesling is an excellent choice in this case. Its natural sweetness can help tame the spiciness and provide a refreshing contrast. Moscato and Gewurztraminer are also great options, as they have a hint of sweetness and can complement the flavors of the soup.
On the other hand, if your soup is more savory and rich, like a hearty tomato soup or a creamy mushroom soup, you may want to opt for a wine with a bit more body and depth. A medium-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir or a Grenache can provide a nice contrast and enhance the flavors of the soup. These wines have enough structure to stand up to the richness of the soup without overpowering it.
When it comes to pairing wine with ginger-infused soups, such as a carrot and ginger soup or a Thai coconut ginger soup, you'll want to look for a wine that can complement the spicy and fragrant notes of ginger. A slightly off-dry Riesling or a Gewurztraminer can be a fantastic choice, as they have the right balance of sweetness and acidity to harmonize with the ginger flavors.
Personal experience: One time, I made a spicy black bean soup with a variety of dried peppers and chili powder. I decided to pair it with a German Riesling, and it was a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the wine helped mellow out the spiciness of the soup, while the bright acidity of the Riesling cut through the richness of the beans. It was a delightful combination that I would definitely recommend.
When choosing a wine to pair with soup, consider the flavor profile of the soup and look for a wine that can complement and enhance those flavors. If your soup has spicy elements, opt for a slightly sweet wine like Riesling, Moscato, or Gewurztraminer. For savory or creamy soups, consider a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Grenache. And for ginger-infused soups, go for a slightly off-dry Riesling or Gewurztraminer. Cheers!