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 a Zinfandel from Kirschenmann Vineyard.
Sourced from Besson Vineyard in Santa Clara County where the Grenache wines date back to the early 1900’s
Bright red in color. 13.4% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, kirsch, citrus and flowers. Medium body with medium acidity. Crisp and refreshing. Strawberry, cranberry, blood orange, blood and earth on the palate. The finish is long and supple. Delicious and easy to drink but I was hoping for a bit more. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 89 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?