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.
From a Contra Costa County vineyard planted in the 1920s in what is classified as Dehli blow sand.
Dark crimson in color. 12.8% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, earth and flowers. Medium body with ample acidity. Light, crisp and refreshing. Cherry, earth and minerals on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Absolutely delicious wine that is so easy to drink and true to the Sandlands style. Best over the next 2-3 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 2020 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.