Corn Chowder with Bacon

Name: Corn Chowder with Bacon
Ingredients: 3 slices center-cut bacon; 1 cup chopped red bell pepper; 1 cup chopped onion; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh corn kernels (3-4 ears); 3 tablespoons water, divided; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided; ¼ cup dry white wine; 8 ounces Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 5 sprigs fresh thyme, plus leaves for garnish; ¼ cup half-and-half; ½ tablespoon butter; ½ teaspoon ground pepper