Sandlands is the personal project of Tegan and Olivia Passalacqua. Tegan is the Winemaker and Vineyard Manager at Turley. The line-up encompasses some of the forgotten classic California varieties, primarily grown in decomposed granite from regions and vineyards that have been farmed for many generations but have remained the outliers of California viticulture. The wines made at Sandlands include Syrah, Trousseau, Carignane, Mataro and Chenin Blanc.
Crimson in color. 12.9% ABV. Delightful nose of dried red and black fruits, earth, iron and flowers. Medium body with medium acidity. Rustic yet elegant. Tart black cherry, cranberry, plums and earth on the palate. The finish is long and supple. Charming and easy to drink. As we get closer to Thanksgiving I can’t help but think how good this would be on the holiday dinner table. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 91 points.
Seriously consider signing up for the Sandlands mailing list. Tegan has a model of unique wines at extremely fair prices from overlooked vineyards. What more can you ask for?
Sandlands fared well in The 2018 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.