Gomez Cruzado, founded in 1886, may have a lot of history but their wines certainly do not rest on their laurels. With vines planted in the high Sierra Cantabria hills up to 80 years old they have outstanding fruit to work with and in their bodega in Haro they combine the traditional oak ageing of Rioja with contemporary innovations such as the use of concrete eggs for fermentation.
The Predilecto has a higher proportion (65%) of Garnacha than the average Rioja, with 35% Tempranillo. They destem the grapes without crushing, allowing for whole berries to ferment for more fruit aroma and a soft and silky tannin profile. The wine is aged in concrete rather than oak to preserve the fresh fruit and brightness of the wine. The nose presents vibrant red cherry and strawberry aromas with an undertone of liquorice and wild herbs. The palate has a wonderful smoothness, lots of tasty ripe berry fruit and a nice fresh acidity in the finish.