Bodegas y Vinedos Gomez Cruzado 'Crianza' Red Blend, Rioja DOCa, Spain

The 2022 Bodegas y Viñedos Gómez Cruzado Crianza is a modern interpretation of classic Rioja, combining elegance, freshness, and remarkable depth. Sourced from cool-climate vineyards in Rioja Alta, this refined Crianza balances the vibrant fruit of Tempranillo with the aromatic lift of Garnacha, while careful oak ageing adds complexity without overshadowing the purity of the fruit. The result is a beautifully structured Rioja that remains true to the fine wine traditions of Haro's historic Barrio de la Estación.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: David González
• Viticultural Director: Juan Antonio Leza
• Varietals: 75% Tempranillo, 25% Garnacha
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Vineyards: Tempranillo from the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria; Garnacha from Alto Najerilla (Badarán)
• Soils: Clay-limestone and clay-ferrous soils
• Harvest: Hand-harvested in 200 kg crates with bunch selection at the winery
• Vinification: Three-day cold pre-fermentation maceration with daily pump-overs and délestage during temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks
• Aging: 12 months in French and American oak barrels
• Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/L
• Production: Approximately 150,000 bottles and 5,000 Magnums

Sensory Description:

Deep ruby in colour, the bouquet reveals expressive aromas of ripe black cherry, blackberry, red plum, violet, sweet baking spices, vanilla, cedar, and subtle toasted oak. The palate is silky and balanced, offering layers of dark berries, raspberry, plum, licorice, cocoa, and gentle spice supported by refined tannins and vibrant acidity. The finish is long, elegant, and savoury, with lingering notes of ripe fruit, spice, and well-integrated oak.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1886 in Haro, Gómez Cruzado is one of Rioja's historic wineries and one of the iconic estates of the Barrio de la Estación. Today, under the direction of winemaker David González and viticultural specialist Juan Antonio Leza, the winery focuses on expressing the character of Rioja Alta through sustainably farmed high-elevation vineyards, traditional craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to terroir. Their philosophy combines classic Rioja ageing with modern precision to produce wines defined by elegance, freshness, and longevity.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16-18°C in a large Bordeaux or Rioja red wine glass to enhance its aromatic complexity and silky texture. Decant for approximately 30 minutes while young to allow the fruit and oak to integrate fully. An excellent companion to grilled lamb chops, roast beef, pork tenderloin, braised short ribs, duck breast, chorizo, Iberico ham, mushroom risotto, roasted root vegetables, paella with chorizo, grilled portobello mushrooms, Manchego, aged Gouda, Comté, or mature Cheddar. It also pairs beautifully with tapas, including croquetas, patatas bravas, jamón, grilled peppers, olives, Marcona almonds, and rustic country bread with olive oil.