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

Bright and structured, the 2020 Bodegas y Viñedos Gómez Cruzado Crianza from Rioja DOCa, Spain channels the soul of Rioja Alta’s highland terroir through its expressive blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha. This vintage captures the tension of a cool, challenging growing season with clarity, offering a wine of freshness, precision, and balance that remains true to its traditional roots while exuding modern finesse.

Product Details:

• Varieties: 75% Tempranillo (foothills of the Cantabria Range), 25% Garnacha (Upper Najerilla - Badarán)
• ABV: 14%
• pH: 3.50
• Residual Sugar: 1.2 g/L
• Soils: Sandstone-clay and ferrous-clay
• Fermentation & Aging: 3 days cold soak; temperature-controlled fermentation in cone-shaped stainless steel vats; aged 12 months in French and American oak barriques
• Production: 150,000 bottles (750ml), 5,000 Magnums
• Owners: Baños family (since the early 2000s)

Sensory Description:

This Crianza opens with aromas of cherry, dark plum, and wild herbs layered over hints of earth and sweet spice. The palate is smooth yet energetic, with well-structured tannins and a backbone of vibrant acidity that carries through to a persistent finish with notes of tobacco and vanilla. There's a rustic charm beneath its polished texture, echoing both varietal authenticity and the hand of tradition.

Awards & Accolades:

• 91 points – James Suckling
• 89 points – Wine Spectator

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1886 in Haro by Ángel Gómez de Arteche, Bodegas y Viñedos Gómez Cruzado is a cornerstone of Rioja winemaking history. The winery's ownership passed to Rioja natives Ángel and Jesús Gómez Cruzado in 1916 and today remains in the hands of the Baños family, who continue its legacy with a family-run spirit. The estate focuses on crafting site-driven wines from distinct soils in Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa, balancing innovation and tradition under the guidance of a skilled winemaking team.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 18–20 °C in a standard Bordeaux-style red wine glass to best appreciate its layered aromatics and vibrant texture. This Crianza pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, pasta with arrabbiata sauce, mushroom risotto, or cured Manchego. It also shines with hearty tapas and semi-aged cheeses.

This classic Rioja delivers age-worthy character and regional purity with a refined modern touch, offering impressive value and timeless appeal.