Souzao

Souzão, also known by its synonym Vinhao, is a Portuguese grape variety that is characterized by its intense color, fruity aromas and a powerful tannic structure.

Souzão grows in bunches of medium size, with blue-black berries. Its colour is deep and intense, and its tannins are powerful. It is a variety that produces wines with aromas of red and dark fruits such as blackberries, blueberries, plums and cherries, as well as spicy notes of pepper, licorice and coffee. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with grippy tannins and a pleasingly long finish.

Souzão is mainly grown in the Vinho Verde and Douro regions of Portugal, where it is used to make both red and rosé wines. In the Douro region, it is used to make fortified wines, such as port. It is also grown in small amounts in other parts of the world, including Spain, Australia, South Africa and California. Souzão is a variety that is well-adapted to the warm climate of Portugal, and it is relatively resistant to drought and disease. It is generally easy to grow, as it is not very prone to powdery mildew and other fungal diseases. In the vineyard, it is important to keep the vine canopy open and to avoid over-cropping. In the winery, the grapes are processed in different ways. For rose wines, the grapes are usually direct pressed befor being fermented in stainless steel tanks. For powerful and structured red wines, the wines can undergo a long maceration and aging process, often in american or french oak barrels. In the Dão region, Souzão is blended with other local varieties such as Jaen, Alfrocheiro and Touriga Nacional to make full-bodied red wines that are rich in flavour and tannin. In the Douro region, it is blended with other varieties such as Tinta Roriz and Touriga Franca to make fortified or dry wines that are intense and complex. Souzão pairs well with a wide range of dishes, from grilled red meats and stews to slightly spicy dishes and game. It is also a good match for hard cheeses and savoury dishes.

Souzão produces what are probably the darkest wines in all of Portugal.