The Mission
Grape
A variety of Vitis vinifera, also known as Criolla in South America and Listán Prieto in Spain. It was brought to the Americas by Spanish missionaries in the 16th century and is known for producing straightforward, rustic wines with a range of styles from table wines to sweet, fortified wines.
Mission
Grape History
The Mission grape, also known as Criolla or Pais in different regions, holds a special place in wine history as it is considered to be one of the oldest grape varieties in the Americas. Its story begins with the arrival of Spanish missionaries in the 16th century, who brought vine cuttings to establish vineyards for religious purposes in present-day Mexico and later in California. The Mission grape was widely planted by the missionaries for sacramental wine production due to its ability to thrive in the diverse climates of the New World.
The Mission grape is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, possibly Spain, and was brought to the Americas by Spanish conquistadors and missionaries. It spread rapidly throughout Mexico, Peru, Chile, and California, becoming one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the early history of winemaking in the Americas. The vine is known for its resilience and ability to withstand various climatic conditions, making it a popular choice for early settlers in the New World.
Interestingly, the Mission grape is a versatile variety that can be used to produce a range of wine styles, from light and fruity reds to fortified wines. In Mexico, it is commonly used to make a beverage called "vino de la casa," a rustic and simple wine enjoyed by locals. In California, the Mission grape has been used historically to produce sweet dessert wines and fortified wines such as Angelica and Port.
Today, the Mission grape is mostly grown in Mexico, particularly in the Zacatecas region, where it is used for local wine production. In California, the grape's plantings have significantly declined over the years as winemakers have favored more commercially successful grape varieties. However, there has been a recent resurgence of interest in historic grape varieties, including the Mission grape, due to a growing trend towards heritage and artisanal winemaking.
The future of the Mission grape remains uncertain, as its popularity has waned in recent decades. However, some winemakers and viticulturists are working to preserve and revitalize this historic variety, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. Efforts are being made to promote the Mission grape as a unique and authentic expression of the New World winemaking tradition.
In conclusion, the Mission grape is a grape variety deeply rooted in the history of winemaking in the Americas. While its presence in the wine world has diminished over time, there is a renewed interest in this ancient variety, with the potential to revitalize its legacy and bring it to new generations of wine enthusiasts.