Wine Scanner AI
Red wine | Rioja, Spain
See all comments, ratings, and join the community discussion in the Wine Scanner AI app!
El Predilecto 2023 from the historic Bodegas y Viñedos Gómez Cruzado is a masterful homage to the traditional Rioja style that predates the widespread influence of oak. Founded in 1886 in the legendary Barrio de la Estación in Haro, this boutique winery has crafted a wine that prioritizes pure fruit expression and terroir over the 'makeup' of barrel aging. By fermenting native-yeast grapes separately—65% Garnacha from the high-altitude, iron-rich red clay soils of Alto Najerilla and 35% Tempranillo from the limestone slopes of the Sierra Cantabria—and refining the blend in concrete deposits for several months, the winemakers have achieved a vibrant, juicy, and profoundly authentic profile. On the nose, you are greeted by an aromatic cascade of ripe cherries, strawberries, and apricots, underlined by subtle notes of licorice and wild herbs. On the palate, it reveals a fleshy, fruit-forward character with fine-grained, supple tannins and a refreshing acidity that carries into an elegant, persistent finish. With its 92-point expert rating, this wine is a testament to the fact that greatness does not always require years of wood aging; sometimes, it simply requires the right altitude, the right soil, and a deep respect for the vineyard. It is an approachable, modern classic that pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean cuisine, particularly roasted lamb, pork, or a savory lamb burger in a brioche bun. If you are looking for a wine that balances heritage with the brightness of today's winemaking, El Predilecto is an essential discovery.