# Kungfu Criolla (2023)

- **Producer:** Riccitelli Wine Co.
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Criolla Grande
- **Region:** Mendoza, Argentina
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 12–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, strawberry, cherry, plum, herbaceous

## About this wine

Kungfu is a vibrant creation by Matias Riccitelli, a dynamic winemaker redefining Argentina's viticultural landscape. Located in Mendoza, Riccitelli focuses on showcasing forgotten heritage varieties and old vineyards. This wine is a tribute to Criolla Grande, a historic grape that has been part of South America's wine heritage for centuries but was long overlooked in favor of international varieties. By sourcing from old, low-yielding vines, Riccitelli crafts a fresh, energetic expression that highlights the grape's natural vitality.

## Interesting facts

- Made from 100% Criolla Grande, a historic grape variety brought to South America by Spanish settlers in the 16th century.
- Crafted with zero added sulfur dioxide, allowing the purest expression of the grape and Mendoza's terroir.
- The eye-catching, retro-style label reflects the energetic, playful, and unconventional spirit of the wine.

## Food pairing

This light-bodied, high-acid red wine behaves similarly to a Cru Beaujolais or a light Pinot Noir. Its vibrant acidity and low tannins make it incredibly versatile, cutting through fatty charcuterie and complementing lighter meats like pork, duck, or even meaty fish like tuna. It pairs beautifully with dishes featuring red fruit elements or earthy mushroom notes.

## Wine making process

The grapes are hand-harvested from old pergola-trained vines in Luján de Cuyo. Fermentation takes place spontaneously with native yeasts in concrete vats to preserve the pure fruit profile. In line with natural winemaking principles, the wine undergoes minimal intervention, is bottled without fining or filtration, and has no added sulfites (Sin Sulfitos Agregados) to maintain its raw, energetic character.