Grape Variety
Sousao
"soo-SOWN"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Sousao
Origin
Minho, Portugal
History
Sousão, also known as Vinhão in the Vinho Verde region, is a red grape variety that originated in Portugal's Minho region. It is traditionally used in the production of deeply colored red wines and is a key component in fortified Port wines due to its intense pigmentation and high acidity. The grape has also been adopted in other wine-producing countries, including Australia, South Africa, and the United States, where it contributes to both fortified and table wines.
Appearance
Small to medium-sized, dark-skinned berries with thick skins, forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Sousão is a mid-to-late budding and ripening variety with thick skins and compact bunches. It requires good ventilation and a dry growing season but is also prone to drought stress if not adequately irrigated. The grape adapts to various training systems and soil types, including schist and sandy soils.
Wine Characteristics
Body
5/5
Sweetness
2/5
Tannin
4/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
3/5
Full-bodied with a robust structure, offering depth and intensity. Typically vinified dry, though it is also used in fortified wines like Port, which exhibit higher sweetness levels. High tannin levels, contributing to a firm and structured mouthfeel. High acidity, providing freshness and balance to its bold flavors. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally ranging from 12% to 14.5%, depending on the winemaking style and region.
Taste Profile
Blackberry
Plum
Dark chocolate
Spice
Earthy
Sousão wines are characterized by their deep color and intense flavor profile. Common tasting notes include ripe blackberry and plum, complemented by dark chocolate and spicy nuances. The high acidity provides a refreshing balance to the rich fruit flavors, and earthy undertones add complexity. In fortified styles like Port, Sousão contributes to a sweet, luscious profile with concentrated dark fruit flavors.
Food Pairing
Sousão's bold flavors and high acidity make it an excellent match for rich and hearty dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, stews, and game. The wine's intense fruit profile complements dishes with berry sauces, while its tannic structure stands up to fatty cuts of meat. Additionally, Sousão pairs nicely with aged cheeses and charcuterie.
Growing Regions
Portugal
DouroVinho Verde
Spain
Galicia
Australia
South Australia
South Africa
Western Cape
United States
California
Notable Wines & Producers
Quinta de Ventozelo Sousão
Quinta de Ventozelo
Mazza Wines Sousão
Mazza Wines
Sandeman Vintage Port
Sandeman
Sousao FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Sousao?
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Minho, Portugal
Is Sousao wine full bodied?
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Sousao has a body level of 5 out of 5. Which means that Sousao is Full bodied.
Is Sousao wine dry or sweet?
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Sousao has a dryness level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Sousao is Semi-Dry.
Where is Sousao wine from?
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Minho, Portugal
Where is Sousao grown?
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Sousao is grown in Portugal (Douro, Vinho Verde)Spain (Galicia)Australia (South Australia)South Africa (Western Cape)United States (California).
What is Sousao like?
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Sousão wines are characterized by their deep color and intense flavor profile. Common tasting notes include ripe blackberry and plum, complemented by dark chocolate and spicy nuances. The high acidity provides a refreshing balance to the rich fruit flavors, and earthy undertones add complexity. In fortified styles like Port, Sousão contributes to a sweet, luscious profile with concentrated dark fruit flavors.
What does Sousao pair with?
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Sousão's bold flavors and high acidity make it an excellent match for rich and hearty dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, stews, and game. The wine's intense fruit profile complements dishes with berry sauces, while its tannic structure stands up to fatty cuts of meat. Additionally, Sousão pairs nicely with aged cheeses and charcuterie.
What does Sousao taste like?
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Sousão wines are characterized by their deep color and intense flavor profile. Common tasting notes include ripe blackberry and plum, complemented by dark chocolate and spicy nuances. The high acidity provides a refreshing balance to the rich fruit flavors, and earthy undertones add complexity. In fortified styles like Port, Sousão contributes to a sweet, luscious profile with concentrated dark fruit flavors.
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