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.
96 points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate (Oct 2025)
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.
94 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Dec 2025)
Another solid Reserve Cabernet from Groth’s Oakville estate in Napa Valley. Just 4.8 hectares of Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon are designated for the Reserve blocks. This blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. In 2022, the oak leaves a distinctly chocolaty imprint, reminiscent of extremely fine, high-quality dark cacao. Black and blue fruits peel away in layers from the rich oak spice, while beams of tannin support this full-bodied red. Loamy earth, dried violets and sage round out the finish, nuanced by espresso bean and toasted cedar.
94 points, Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter (Sep 2025)