Groth 2014 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley

This is the tenth vintage from Groth's historic Reserve vineyard after a replanting of the vineyards took it out of production for five vintages. The rootstock, clones, trellising system and vine row orientation have proven to be the perfect combination of variables for the Groth Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Location is the paramount factor providing the perfect blend of diurnal temperatures, rainfall amounts and unique soil profiles for growing superb Cabernet.

A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot, clusters are night harvested, allowing the fruit to remain cool for sorting and cold soak. Clusters are hand sorted, then de-stemmed without crushing; the berries go through a second hand sort, making sure only the best berries go into each small fermentation lot. The fermentation was carried out over a ten day period in small, temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at an average temperature of 80 ̊ F. Barrel aging takes place in their dedicated, dual level Reserve barrel rooms. The wine was racked into barrel and aged for 22 months in 40% new French oak.

Wine Spectator scored this 93 points saying "Aromas of dark berry, fresh-cut herbs, cedary oak and gravelly earth are tight and well-centered. Still raw and edgy, but nothing a year or two won't resolve. Patience required. Best from 2020 through 2033."

and Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 94 points saying "Muted at first, this reserve wine shows a deft hand. A red currant tone is met by a mild grip of tannins and a soft midpalate that is lightly rich in coconut shavings and mocha. Supple and balanced in richness, it offers classic flavors of cassis and cherry wrapped in supportive oak."