As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air rolls in, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup paired with a delicious glass of wine. The Petoskey Wine Region, known for its unique terroir and diverse grape varieties, offers an array of wines that perfectly complement fall soups’ rich, earthy flavors. Here are five fantastic Northern Michigan wine and soup pairings to savor this season.
Butternut Squash Soup with Riesling
Soup: Butternut squash soup is a fall favorite, known for its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavors. The rich and velvety base, often enhanced with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg, makes for a comforting and satisfying dish.
Wine Pairing: Rudbeckia Farm & Winery’s 2021 Riesling
This wine is crisp and light but delivers bold flavors of ripe peach, mango, lemon zest, and minerals. Its vivid acidity bursting with fruit leaves a delightful sensation on the palate, making it a perfect, luscious choice for pairing with butternut squash soup.
Creamy Mushroom Soup with Chardonnay
Soup: Creamy mushroom soup, with its earthy, umami flavors and rich, velvety texture, is a quintessential fall dish. This hearty and satisfying option for a chilly day is made with a blend of wild mushrooms, cream, garlic, and herbs.
Wine Pairing: Petoskey Farms Vineyard & Winery’s Sur Lie Chardonnay
This unoaked Chardonnay from the Northern Michigan wine region pairs beautifully with creamy mushroom soup. The wine’s buttery texture and notes of apple, pear, and subtle vanilla complement the soup’s earthy flavors while enhancing its creamy consistency. The dry and beautiful flavor makes each spoonful a luxurious experience.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup with Pinot Noir
Soup: Roasted tomato basil soup brings the fresh, tangy flavors of late-summer tomatoes into the fall season. Roasting the tomatoes before blending them with garlic, onions, and fresh basil enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the soup.
Wine Pairing: Resort Pike Cidery & Winery’s 2022 Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir, known for its light to medium body and bright red fruit notes, is a delightful match for roasted tomato basil soup. The wine’s acidity mirrors the tanginess of the tomatoes, while its subtle earthiness complements the roasted and smoky flavors. The wine and soup create a balanced and refreshing pairing that highlights the best of both.
Spicy Pumpkin Soup with Itasca
Soup: Spicy pumpkin soup, spiced with ingredients like ginger, cumin, and a hint of chili, adds a kick to the typical fall pumpkin dish. The creamy texture of the pumpkin is complemented by a blend of spices, creating a warm and comforting soup with a bit of heat.
Wine Pairing: Walloon Lake Winery’s 2022 Stargazer
Introducing the 2022 Stargazer, a Semi-Dry Itasca from the Tip of the Mitt AVA. Itasca is one of the latest grape varieties from the UMN breeding program. With its floral aromatics and a delightfully smooth finish, this wine offers an exceptionally balanced experience.
Beef and Barley Soup with Petite Pearl
Soup: Beef and barley soup is a hearty, filling dish perfect for cooler weather. Loaded with tender beef, earthy vegetables, and chewy barley, this soup has a deep, savory flavor that warms the soul.
Wine Pairing: Crooked Vine Vineyard & Winery 2020 Petite Pearl
Made from estate-grown Petite Pearl grapes and aged in Hungarian oak, this dry wine offers notes of fresh dark fruits, a well-balanced profile, and a smooth finish. This wine is delightful to enjoy now or to reserve for its aging potential.
Michigan wines offer diverse flavors that can enhance your fall dining experience. Whether you’re cozying up with a bowl of creamy mushroom soup or enjoying the heartiness of beef and barley soup, there’s a Petoskey Wine Region wine that will perfectly complement your meal. So, grab a bottle, ladle up some soup, and enjoy the best fall flavors with these delicious pairings. Don’t forget to add a wine tour through the Petoskey Wine Region to your fall color tour experience! Purchase our wine passport to save on tastings and explore Northern Michigan’s breathtaking fall colors and deliciously diverse wine varietals. Cheers to a fun and flavorful autumn!
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