Criolla
The Americas' Original Vine
Criolla is grown in Mendoza, San Juan and Argentina.
4regions it is known for
3other names
- Tastes of
- light fruits, simple, fresh and soft
- Goes with
- everyday meals, empanadas and simple grilled meats
- Also called
- Criolla Grande, Criolla Chica, Mission
The story
Criolla is the collective name for grapes descended from the first Spanish vines brought to the Americas. Criolla Grande and Criolla Chica (Mission grape) spread from Mexico to Argentina. For centuries, this was American wine.
Insider story
Every New World wine country started with Criolla.
Argentina still has vast Criolla plantings for bulk wine.
The grape is the ancestor of Torrontés.
Technical deep dive
Light-bodied pink/rosé.
Simple, fruity, low acidity.
High yield.
Mostly bulk wine.
Some quality versions emerging.
Industry secrets
Criolla is being rediscovered by natural wine producers.
The old vines make interesting pink wines.
It's the grandmother of American wine.
For collectors
Investment grade D
- Auction records
- No auction market—bulk wine
- Blue-chip producers
-
- Cara Sur
- Natural wine producers
- Value picks
- Any serious Criolla attempt ($10-20)
- Price trend
- Stable. Natural wine interest helps.
- Collector’s tip
- Buy for history. Not for cellaring.