Criolla Chica
Criolla Chica is a red grape variety primarily found in South America, particularly Argentina and Chile, where it was brought by Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. It is genetically identical to the Spanish variety PaÃs and the Mission grape of California, producing light to medium-bodied red wines with moderate tannins, bright acidity, and notes of red fruits, herbs, and earth. Criolla Chica thrives in warm, dry climates and is traditionally used for rustic table wines, though innovative winemakers are now creating higher quality expressions through careful vineyard management and modern winemaking techniques.
Criolla Chica Wines
Mundo Reves Le Petit Voyage Criolla Chica
Criolla Chica (also known as PaÃs or Mission) is one of South America's heritage grape varieties, brought by Spanish missionaries centuries ago. While long overlooked in favor of international varieties, innovative producers like Mundo Reves are rediscovering its charms and showcasing its unique character. 'Le Petit Voyage' translates to 'The Little Journey,' which perfectly captures what this wine offers – a delightful excursion into Argentina's winemaking history with a modern sensibility. Made with minimal intervention to preserve the grape's natural vibrancy, this is light-bodied red wine at its most charming and versatile. It's the kind of bottle that can be slightly chilled and enjoyed with virtually anything – or nothing at all. In a world of heavy, high-alcohol reds, this wine's gentle touch and refreshing character provide a welcome alternative that proves sometimes less really is more.
Mundo Reves Le Petit Voyage Criolla Pet Nat
Pétillant Naturel (or Pét-Nat for short) is the original sparkling wine – a method that predates Champagne by centuries. Mundo Reves has applied this ancient technique to Criolla Chica, one of South America's oldest grape varieties, creating a thoroughly modern wine that feels both innovative and timeless. The Pét-Nat method involves bottling the wine while it's still fermenting, allowing it to finish fermentation in the bottle and create natural carbonation. This results in a slightly cloudy, unfiltered sparkler with vibrant fruit character and a gentle effervescence that's utterly charming. 'Le Petit Voyage' is the perfect name – drinking it feels like a delightful little journey into wine's past and future simultaneously. It's funky but accessible, complex but joyful – the kind of wine that makes you wonder why anyone would drink mass-produced bubbly when gems like this exist.