Pair wines with hearty soup

It seems superfluous to drink wine with soup, as though one liquid needed another. However, texture matters -- on either side -- and in that way changes the relationship.

If the soup is chunky or thick and closer to being a stew, as a Tomato Soup with Curried Basmati Rice is, then liquid in the glass isn't a worry.

If the wine is heavy, such as sherry or Madeira, even a delicate broth pairs well. Sherry is a perfect soup go-to, in any case. Aromatic white wines also complement the curry's spice. Try these wines with thick tomato soups.

- Gonzalez Byass Sherry Oloroso Abocado Cristina, Spain: Flavors and aromas of raisins and toffee; slightly sweet, nicely unctuous. $20

- 2011 Kramer Vineyards Muller-Thurgau, Yamhill-Carlton, Oregon: There's enough lychee, peach and ginger to identify it as such; crisp, fresh, fine American example. $12