Souzão
Souzão (Sousão, Vinhão; Spanish: Sousón) is a Portuguese wine grape that is used in the production of port wine.
Souzão | |
---|---|
Grape (Vitis) | |
Souzão in Viala & Vermorel | |
Color of berry skin | Noir |
Species | Vitis vinifera |
Origin | Portugal |
VIVC number | 13100 |
Usage in wine
While originating in the Minho regions, it is used primarily in Australia, California and South Africa. Sousón is also an authorized grape in the Monterrei DO in Galicia. In Portugal, it is also an authorized planting in the Douro, and Dão-Lafões area (Vinho do Dão). It shows up as a key player in Quinto do Noval's Nacional. The grape is known for the deep color it produces in a wine as well as its rustic and raisiny taste.[1]
In Australia, Souzao is used to make port-style wines and also table wines, often blended with other Portuguese grape varieties.
In South Africa, it is regarded as one of the better fortified-wine varieties for its high sugar levels and deep color.[2]
References
- J. Robinson Vines, Grapes & Wines p. 217 Mitchell Beazley 1986 ISBN 1-85732-999-6
- Clarke, Oz; Rand, Margaret (2015). Grapes & wines: a comprehensive guide to varieties and flavours (completely revised ed.). New York: Sterling Epicure. ISBN 9781454915980. OCLC 889182873.