Soak, rinse and sort peas per package instructions.
Heat oil in a large, heavy 5-7 quart pot.
Add onions, carrots, celery and cook until tender,
Add garlic and cook another 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
Add salt and pepper and stir to coat vegetables.
Add cup of wine and stir to deglaze, scraping up any bits from the pan.
Add broth and or water and bring all ingredients to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook until peas are tender, about 2 to 3 hours.
Add ham and serve topped with croutons if desired.