The Sousón grape, known for its deep red color and its ability to produce wines with good acidity and structured tannins, is a variety emblematic ink of Galicia. Originally from the valley of the Minho River, this grape is also grown in the northwest of Portugal, where it is known as Vinhão.
In the Rías Baixas, Sousón is the most widely grown red variety. Although the region is best known for its white wines, especially Albariño, red wine production is gaining ground, and Sousón stands out for its potential. In addition to Rías Baixas, Sousón is grown in other Galician DOs such as Ribeiro, Ribeira Sacra, Valdeorras and Monterrei, reflecting its importance in Galician viticulture.
Historically, Sousón has been used primarily in blends to add color and structure to wines. However, in recent years, there has been growing interest in producing single-varietal Sousón wines, which are noted for their aromas of ripe black fruits, such as plums and blackberries, and floral notes. They benefit from barrel aging, which helps to soften their tannins and round out their profile.
In terms of sensory characteristics, Sousón wines are known for their intensity and depth, with a lively acidity that gives them freshness and a robust body that makes them suitable for pairing with a variety of dishes.
