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, Chenin Blanc and at long last a Zinfandel from Kirschenmann Vineyard.
Ruby red in color. 13.7% ABV. Equal parts Bechthold Vineyard Cinsault, Spenker Ranch Carignane and Kirschenmaan Vineyard Zinfandel. Pretty nose of red fruits, earth, iron and flowers. Medium body with ample acidity. Rustic and earthy with crisp fruits. Cherries, blood, earth and black tea on the palate. Nice length on the finish. Unique wine that really captures the essence of Lodi. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 90 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 2020 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.
Tom, I bought a few of these from Sandlands and quite enjoyed them. Benefits from a decant/aeration and is one to savor. My first taste of Sandlands.
Always tasty and pricing is second to none.