Remove the white papery skin from garlic bulbs (do not peel or separate the cloves)
Drizzle peeled bulbs with a little olive oil and wrap in aluminum foil - Bake on top rack of oven for 40 minutes
Remove from oven and allow to cool (wrapped) for 10-15 minutes
Separate the cloves and squeeze to extract garlic pulp (discard skins) - Set aside until needed
Caramelized Onion/Soup:
Heat olive oil in a 6 - 8 quart stock pot over medium heat - Once oil is hot, add onion and allow to cook (stirring frequently) for 30 minutes - Add ½ tsp salt and thyme - Continue to cook for an additional 20-30 minutes (stirring frequently) or until onions are dark golden in color (add a little water and/or lower heat if onions are cooking too fast)
While continuously stirring, add flour and allow to cook for 1 minute
Add vegetable stock and wine and thoroughly combine - Bring to a boil
Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and allow to simmer for 30 minutes (adjust heat as necessary to maintain simmer) - Add the roasted garlic, leeks, and remaining ½ tsp salt
Use a stick blender to process until smooth*
Add heavy cream and return to a simmer - Allow to simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes
Adjust seasoning and serve hot garnished as desired along with a good 'hunk' of crusty bread
*As Alternative: Transfer to a blender (in batches if necessary) -Blend until smooth and return
to pot
NOTE: The darker you caramelize the onions, the darker the soup will be