Mission (grape) facts for kids
Mission grapes are a special type of grape called Vitis vinifera. They were first brought to the western parts of North America and South America from Spain.
Catholic missionaries introduced these grapes. They used them to make wine for religious ceremonies, for drinking with meals, and for stronger, "fortified" wines.
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Where Mission Grapes Grow
Today, you can find Mission grapes growing in South America, especially in Chile and Peru. In these countries, they are known by different names like Criolla and Pais.
Other Names for the Grape
In the 1800s, people called these grapes by many names. Some common names were the Los Angeles grape and the California grape. This shows how important they were in those areas.
History of Mission Grapes
Mission grapes have a long history, especially in the Americas. They were among the very first European grapes to be planted in these new lands.
How They Arrived
Spanish missionaries played a key role in bringing these grapes. They traveled to new places and set up missions, which were like settlements. They planted these grapes to help their communities grow and to make wine for their religious services.
Importance in Early Settlements
These grapes were very important for the early settlements. They provided fruit for eating and for making wine. This made them a vital part of life for the missionaries and the people living near the missions.
What Mission Grapes Are Used For
Mission grapes are quite versatile. They can be used for different kinds of wine.
Making Wine
- Sacramental Wine: This is wine used in religious ceremonies.
- Table Wine: This is regular wine that people drink with meals.
- Fortified Wine: This is a stronger type of wine, like port or sherry.
Other Uses
Besides wine, the grapes themselves can be eaten fresh. They are a sweet and juicy fruit.
Why They Are Called "Mission" Grapes
The name "Mission grapes" comes from the missions where they were first grown. The missionaries planted them at their mission sites. This name helps us remember their history and where they came from.
See also
In Spanish: Misión (uva) para niños
