Ratings & Tasting Notes:
93 points Decanter, May 2024
This review, from a vertical tasting of Groth wines spanning 1982–2022 with proprietor Dennis Groth and winemaker Ted Henry, describes a powerful nose of turned earth and black truffle with dried rose petals and violets, noting succulent, fine-grained tannins carrying “layers of leather, dried lilacs, and an enticing hint of forest floor.”
92 points James Laube (Wine Spectator), October 2000 — Cellar Selection
This review notes the wine “grows on you,” describing rich, earthy character with complex herb, currant, sage, and cedary oak notes that “fold together nicely” into a concentrated aftertaste.
90 points Stephen Tanzer (Vinous), September 2017
This review describes a medium red color with plum, spice, and saddle leather aromas, calling it “a supple, spicy midweight” with inviting raspberry and cherry fruit, noting “nothing hard or weighty” about this elegant, delicious Cabernet with suave tannins.
Cult Wines International Notes:
Groth Vineyards was founded in 1982 by Dennis and Judy Groth, a year after Dennis — a former Atari executive — purchased 121 acres on Oakville Cross Road in the heart of Napa Valley. The estate quickly built a serious reputation, and its 1985 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon became the first California wine ever awarded a perfect 100-point score by Robert Parker. Today Groth farms sustainably alongside legendary Oakville neighbors like Screaming Eagle and Plumpjack, with the estate now led by the Groths’ daughter, Suzanne, as President and CEO.
1997 is widely regarded as one of the single greatest vintages of the 20th century for Napa Valley, following a long, uninterrupted growing season with ideal, moderate conditions throughout. The resulting wines are prized for their depth, ripeness, and structural balance, and this bottling was recognized at the time with a coveted spot on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2000. Now approaching three decades of age, this Cabernet has settled into a fully mature, earthy, tertiary character — exactly the kind of long-term evolution that made this vintage so celebrated among serious collectors.
Bottle Size:
750 mL
Storage History:
Always stored on its side in a climate-controlled cellar.
Condition:
Please note: The bottle shown is the exact bottle being sold.
Outstanding condition.
