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.
The vineyard was planted in the 1920s in what is classified as Dehli blow sand.
Dark crimson in color. 12.5% ABV. 65% Carignane and 35% Mataro from Oakley Road. Pretty nose of red fruits, citrus and earth. Medium body with ample acidity. Crisp, refreshing and packed with crunchy fruits. Cherry, cranberry, blood orange and minerals on the palate. Nice length on the finish. This wine has so much character but will be best this Summer served at cellar temperature on a warm night. Thank me later.
My rating: 92 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?