I have such fond memories tasting at Groth in the outside sun. One of Napa’s historic sites, Groth Vineyards was founded in 1982 by Judy and Dennis Groth. Prior to starting their winery they found financial success while working for Ernst and Young in the South Bay. Dennis became chief financial officer at Atari and in 1981 they both purchased a large 121 acre parcel of land in Oakville back in 1982. These vineyards are on the floor of Napa, right in the prime area for growing beautiful Chardonnay, and Bordeaux varietals. Today, second-generation family member Suzanne Groth leads the business. New winemaker Ted Henry has an impressive resume which includes former stints at jJarvis Estate and Clos du Val.
He has crafted some beautiful wines from tough vintages. I love the new 2021 Groth Sauvignon Blanc (OB, 92) which is insanely good for the price and offers a lush texture. They did an amazing job crafting their 2020 Groth Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 92) which is an amazing accomplishment from 2020. Learn more about this great historic winery at https://www.grothwines.com Here are the fantastic new bottling by Groth.
2022 Groth ‘Estate’ Sauvignon Blanc- The 2022 ‘Estate’ Sauvignon Blanc is a great wine made from a challenging harvest. This comes off big and generous on the palate, with plenty of body. Kiwi and ripe gooseberry flavors combine with stony and salty accents on the palate. The weight and texture really drive this excellent wine. Enjoy now. Drink 2024-2030- 92
2022 Groth ‘Hillview Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The 2022 Groth ‘Hillview Vineyard’ Chardonnay was aged sur lie in French oak barrels (only 14% new) for eight months before bottling. Rich and polished, the smooth texture entices. Layers of buttercream and cantaloupe combine with Japanese pear and nectarine with stony accents on the palate. Showing nice poise and weight, this is already drinking beautifully. Drink 2024-2030- 92
2020 Groth ‘Oakcross’ Red Wine- The 2020 ‘Oakcross’ is named after the original name given to the Groth’s Oakville Estate Vineyard when it was planted in 1973. The wine is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot that was stored in mainly new French oak barrels for 21 months before bottling. Very inky in the glass, this delivers bitter chocolate, blackberry pie, tar and creme de violette flavors on the palate, with firm tannins providing grip. Drink 2024-2032- 92
2020 Groth Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2020 Groth Cabernet Sauvignon combines 85% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remainder Merlot. Stored in 45% new French oak, this offers silky tannins that frame a core of beautiful black fruits, alongside coffee grounds, creosote and shades of graphite on the palate. This is seriously good considering the challenges faced this vintage. Drink 2024-2032- 92