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.
Kirschenmann Vineyard is situated on the East Side of Lodi’s Mokelumne River AVA and was planted in 1915.
Crimson in color. 14.4% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, flowers, citrus and earth. Medium body with perfect acidity and balance. Light in style with a sense of elegance and charm. Cherry, cranberry, blood orange and a hint of pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Such a unique take on Zinfandel that really speaks to the Sandlands house style. Best over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 93 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.