Some producers have a quiet confidence about them, the kind of presence that doesn’t need to shout to be heard. That’s exactly how we think of Gómez Cruzado. Based in the heart of Rioja Alta, this historic bodega has been making wine for well over a century, and today they are rightly considered one of the “First Growth” producers of Rioja, a title that carries both respect and responsibility, and one they live up to beautifully.
Our connection with Gómez Cruzado runs deep. We’ve spent many hours in their cellars and vineyards, seeing firsthand the dedication that goes into every bottle and they return the gesture often, with the fantastic Amaia regularly joining us in Bakewell to present their wines. Her passion and knowledge shine through each time, and it’s always a privilege to share their range with our customers.
The wines themselves are where Gómez Cruzado truly sets themselves apart. They manage to balance tradition with innovation in a way that keeps them rooted in Rioja’s history while pushing things forward. Take the Predilecto, for instance, a youthful, vibrant take on Tempranillo, full of bright fruit and energy, showing just how fresh Rioja can be. Then there’s Pancrudo, a pure Garnacha from the rugged slopes of Badarán, which captures the soul of old-vine vineyards with its lifted red fruit and mineral edge, certainly Rioja, but with a deliciously modern accent. We can’t forget Montes Obarenes, a white Rioja that stands proudly among Spain’s very best, layered and complex, offering richness and texture but always with a precise, elegant finish.
These wines show why Gómez Cruzado is spoken of in such high regard. They are classics, but never predictable; refined, but never boring. They embody what Rioja can be at its very best.
For us, working with Gómez Cruzado is about more than just having great bottles on the shelf. It’s about bringing a taste of what Tim Atkin MW called “First Growth” pedigree to our customers, sharing wines that reflect not only the history of Rioja but also its exciting future. Every visit, every tasting, is a reminder of just how important these wines are to us and why they deserve a place on your table too.
So next time you pour a glass of Gómez Cruzado, take a moment to savour it. It’s Rioja with real depth, crafted with care, and we’re proud to share it with you.
