Grape Variety
Criolla
“The Americas' Original Vine”
Criolla is a red wine grape grown in Mendoza, San Juan, Argentina — known as “Argentina's Colonial Workhorse”.
Criolla at a glance
| Color | Red |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Criolla Grande, Criolla Chica, Mission |
| Signature flavors | Light Fruits, Simple, Fresh, Soft, Low Tannins, Easy |
| Classic pairings | Everyday meals, Empanadas, Simple grilled meats, Casual dining |
| Where it grows | Mendoza, San Juan, Argentina, Americas |
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.
Collector’s Corner
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.
Updated March 2026
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