Groth Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Groth Vineyards & Winery was established in 1982, and they crushed the first grapes for their own wines that same year and established a solid reputation as an outstanding producer of Napa Valley wines. Dennis and Judy Groth are natives of the Santa Clara Valley, now known as Silicon Valley. Dennis began his career as an accountant and became a CPA in 1968. In early 1978, he became Chief Financial Officer of Atari, a games and electronics subsidiary of Time Warner. Between 1978 and 1984, Dennis held a number of leadership roles at Atari, including President of the Consumer Products Division and President of the International Division.

In 1981, the Groths purchased a 121-acre vineyard parcel in Oakville, Napa Valley, and in 1982, they added a second vineyard of 44 acres located south of Yountville. These vineyards are the primary source of grapes for the Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc wines produced by Groth Vineyards & Winery. Dennis and Judy Groth moved their family to Oakville in 1985 and have been residents ever since. Today, Dennis is Chairman of the Board, and Judy plays an active role in the look and feel of the winery.

Since Day One, the Groth family has been present in the business every day, and that is not likely to change in the future. Today, second-generation family member Suzanne Groth is custodian of the business, and for sure, there will be other Groth family members who follow her. Suzanne shares her parents’ love for Oakville, Napa Valley and the unique agricultural preserve that has been developed here. 

The alluring dense, dark plum color of the 2016 Oakville Cabernet is the first indication of the rich extraction in this wine. Sweet aromas of blackberry tart, ripe plums and marzipan are complemented with a savory hint of toasted coriander seed. The palate opens smoothly, building to a rich, full mouthfeel - the young tannins hinting at a restrained power. A beautifully balanced acidity dances throughout - giving an undercurrent of freshness and a counterpoint to the sweetness of the new French oak, lifting the dark fruits and bringing forward ripe red berries. The finish is layered with baking spices, wild blackberries, and a hint of dried black currant. This wine is enjoyably exuberant now but has the fruit and structure to last another 15+ years should you desire.