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 vineyard planted in 1900 on the west side of Lodi’s Mokelumne River AVA.
Crimson in color. 12.9% ABV. Fabulous nose of red fruits, citrus and flowers. Medium body with ample acidity. Light, crisp and fresh. Cherry, cranberry, pomegranate and minerals on the palate. Nice length on the finish. As always this wine from Sandlands is refreshing, delicious and easy to drink. 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.