Brendel Cooper's Creek Cabernet Sauvignon

Made by the Heitz team led by winemaker Brittany Sherwood, Brendel's 2021 Cooper's Reed Cabernet Sauvignon now includes a sufficient amount of Sonoma fruit to carry a North Coast AVA on the label—this vintage is approximately two-thirds Napa and one-third Sonoma, and the blend includes 5% Petite Sirah and 1% Merlot. Still made in old oak vats to avoid overt wood influence and just medium-bodied, it's something of a throwback stylistically. Although the fruit is quite obvious upfront, combining black cherries and blackberries, the wine is streamlined and somewhat restrained on the palate, finishing with ample length, hints of star anise and a silky texture. It's a decent value for a California Cabernet destined for early drinking.