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. 13.5% ABV. Equal parts Bechthold Vineyard Cinsault, Spenker Ranch Carignane and Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel. All of these vineyards date back over 100 years. Delightful nose of red fruits, citrus and flowers. Medium body with mouth watering acidity. Crisp and refreshing. Strawberry, apricot, tea and earth on the palate. The finish is long and spicy. Incredibly charming and ready to drink. Best over the next several 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?