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.
Crimson in color. 12.9% ABV. 65% Carigane and 35% Mataro from a Costra County Vineyard that dates back to the 1920’s. Pretty nose of red fruits, iron, earth and flowers. Light to medium body with nice acidity. Fresh and crisp with tart fruits. Cherry, cranberry, pomegranate and minerals on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Delicious and exceedingly easy to drink. Ready now.
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.