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.
Crimson in color. 12.8% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, baking spices and earth. Medium body with medium acidity. Rich and grapey with crunchy fruits. Tart cherries, blood orange, plums and minerals on the palate. Nice length on the finish. 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?