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. 14.3% ABV. Savory nose of earthy red fruits, citrus and flowers. Medium body with medium acidity. Crisp, fresh and vibrant. Cherry, cranberry, blood orange and earth on the palate. The finish is long and supple. Delicious Zinfandel that is true to the Sandlands house style. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 91 points.
The first batch of wines from the 2022 vintage will be released to the mailing list early next year.
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?