Groth 2021 Reserve Cabernet

Nestled in the heart of Rutherford and crafted with unwavering precision, the Groth 2021 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a quintessential expression of Napa Valley’s Oakville terroir. This wine reflects the Groth family’s dedication to their Oakville Estate, a legacy dating back to 1981, when they first recognized the unparalleled potential of their vineyard’s western edge. These Reserve blocks, with their distinct chert-laden soils, yield grapes that epitomize elegance, depth, and complexity.

On the nose, the wine unfolds with a captivating medley of ripe blackberry, black currant, and dark cassis, complemented by layers of fine herbs, a whisper of ancho chili, and the exotic warmth of allspice. Subtle notes of sesame and menthol further enhance its aromatic profile, offering intrigue and sophistication. The palate is a masterclass in balance and intensity, with succulent blackberry leading into a core of chocolate-covered black cherry, nuanced tobacco leaf, and a touch of gingerbread spice. The tannins are polished yet robust, framing the wine’s opulent texture and carrying it to a finish that is both persistent and unforgettable.

The Groth 2021 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot, aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak barrels, followed by an additional 14 months in bottle prior to release. This meticulous aging regimen enhances the wine’s structure and ensures its remarkable age-worthiness. The sustainably farmed vineyard, Fish Friendly Farming certified since 2014, embodies the Groth family’s commitment to environmental stewardship and quality.

A testament to the harmony of nature and human ingenuity, this Reserve Cabernet showcases the brilliance of Oakville’s unique microclimate and soil composition. Whether enjoyed now for its vibrant fruit and layered complexity or cellared for decades to unveil its full potential, this wine is a true collector’s gem. Perfectly suited for Napa enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of refinement, the Groth 2021 Reserve Cabernet is a wine that stands as a beacon of excellence in the storied landscape of Rutherford and beyond.

Alcohol: 14.5%

95 POINTS - "A selection of the best lots from the winery's Oakville estate, aged in 100% new oak, Groth's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a great wine at a realistic—for Napa Valley—price. Textbook notes of cedar and vanilla gently cosset black cherries and hints of dried herbs. It's full-bodied, creamy and lush in texture, showing more concentration, tannin and length than the winery's regular Oakville Cabernet." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

95 POINTS - "The 2021 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, with 2% Merlot in the blend, is deep garnet-purple in color. Scents of creme de cassis, plum preserves, and boysenberry slowly emerge from the glass, revealing underlying hints of tar, rose oil, and cast-iron pan. The full-bodied palate is laden with expressive black fruit preserves flavors with earthy accents and a firm frame of ripe, grainy tannins, finishing long and fragrant. " - The Wine Independent

95 POINTS - "Ripe and with a bit of flash thanks to its glossy toast, this red delivers a violet-accented core of cassis and plum reduction, with black licorice, sweet tobacco and singed alder notes. Solid and steady through the lengthy, polished finish, with a hint of flinty minerality lurking in the background. Drink now through 2040. 3,100 cases made." - Wine Spectator

94 POINTS - "Refined, textured and harmonious, with controlled power and poise throughout. It’s full-bodied with fine tannins and a velvety texture on the center palate. Subtle aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, raw chocolate, dried thyme, pebbles and baking spices mingle on the nose. Velvety, restrained and polished in the long finish. Try from 2025." - James Suckling

94 POINTS - "94+ A much smaller production release, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve checks in as 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot that was brought up all in new barrels. Its dense purple hue is followed by a ripe, concentrated, medium to full-bodied wine with lots of blackcurrant and plum fruit, some smoky herb, graphite, and chocolate notes, ripe, focusing tannins, and good mid-palate depth. As with many 2021s, the cellar will be your friend. Give bottles 2-4 years and enjoy over the following two decades" - Jeb Dunnuck

94 POINTS - "The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is absolutely gorgeous. Bright acids give the 2021 striking energy to match its understated, mid-weight personality. Dark red cherry, rose petal, blood orange and spice open first, driven by beams of supporting tannin that confer energy. Winemaker Ted Henry crafted a Reserve that melds old school classicism with contemporary polish." - Vinous

94 POINTS - "Generous and approachable, with the structure to serve a meal beautifully. This wine features flavors of ripe blackberries, cocoa, juicy plums and cloves. Tannins are just grippy enough to keep the wine palate cleansing. It is flavorful enough to enjoy on its own." - Wine Enthusiast

This wine presents a compelling bouquet of deep red and black fruits, with prominent aromas of fresh blackberry, rich dark cassis, and black currant. Fine herbs, ancho chili, allspice, sesame, and hints of menthol add an intriguing complexity. On the palate, sun-ripened wild blackberry leads to indulgent notes of chocolate-covered black cherry and notes of tobacco leaf. A hint of gingerbread introduces a delightful spiciness, harmonizing with soft yet powerful tannins. The finish is lingering and extended, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and depth.