2022 Groth Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, USA (750ml)

WINEMAKER'S NOTES: 

The 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon displays a deep ruby color and a layered aromatic profile of salted caramel, dark mixed berries, graham cracker, menthol, bittersweet chocolate, cedar, dates, and blueberry. On the palate, tart cherry, light roast coffee, brown sugar, nutmeg, blackberry, structured dusty tannins, tiramisu, cocoa powder, and crushed peppers unfold into a rich, long, and elegant finish. Each lot was hand-harvested and meticulously sorted, with extended fermentation and barrel aging enhancing complexity and structure.

Blend: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot

TASTING NOTES: 

A selection of the best lots from the winery's Oakville estate, aged in 100% new oak, Groth's 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve looks to be even better than the terrific 2021. Black cherries and loamy earth are cosseted amidst loads of almost buttery new oak, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is plush and expansive without going over the top. Long and velvety on the finish, this is a strong effort that should provide plenty of pleasure over the next couple decades.

- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 96 pts. 

The flagship release from this historic estate, the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is based on 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot and aged in 100% new oak. Deep purple-hued, it's a clear standout of the 2022s and a brilliant wine offering cassis, graphite, spicy wood, and violets, with a kiss of that classic incense/orange blossom character common in the vintage. It's medium to full-bodied on the palate, concentrated, has sound structure, and a great finish. It's going to evolve for 15 years in cold cellars and is a clear success in this challenging vintage. Hats off to the team here. Drink 2025-2040.

- Jeb Dunnuck, 94 pts. 

Savory, earth-driven aromas of blackcurrants, cedar, black olives, tobacco leaves and crushed stones. The palate is full-bodied with finely tuned tannins and a textural, refined mouthfeel. Not bold or ripe but classic in style. Drinking well now but will age nicely. Drink or hold.

- James Suckling, 93 pts.