What is Sousón and where is it found?
Sousón is one of the most widely planted red grapes in Galicia. It is the most popular red variety in Rías Baixas, the Galician DO best known for its white Albariño wines, but it’s also popular in Ribeira Sacra, Ribeiro, and to a slightly lesser extent in Valdeorras and Monterrei. Genetically, Sousón is the same as Loureira Tinta, although you might find them referred to separately.
Sousón's main characteristics
Sousón is a dark-skinned grape variety used mainly to produce aromatic young wines with quite a high acidity. Sousón buds quite late and matures slowly, which means you’re likely to find it planted in warmer areas or more southerly facing plots to maximise the warmth.
Wines made with Sousón can reach high levels of alcohol, between 12.5 and 14 degrees, with a good level of acidity which helps them age pretty well in wood.
What does Sousón taste like?
Sousón is known for its excellent structure and intense colouring. In terms of aromas, you’ll find lots of dark fruit like blackberries and blackcurrants. Traditionally it’s a variety that you’ll often find blended, though some of the new wave of Galician producers are experimenting with single varietal wines made just from Sousón.
Where can I try some Sousón?
Step into the Ribeira Sacra DO in Galicia, and try Sousón blended with Mencía in Massimo from Atlantic Galician Wineries. The vines were planted between 30 and 90 years ago in slate and granite soils on the steep, terraced slopes of the Mió river. The grapes are selected and harvested by hand and undergo a temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine is cherry red with a violet rim, and the nose brims with delicious aromas of red and tropical fruits. Try it with blue fish like tuna, pasta dishes or cold meats and embutidos.
