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 an Amador vineyard that was planted in 1979.
Golden in color. 13.2% ABV. Reticent nose of stone fruits, baking spices and grass. Full bodied with ample acidity. Soft and supple with a spectacular mouth feel. Pear, apple and nutmeg on the palate. The finish is long and smooth. Absolutely delicious Chenin Blanc that I will try to reload on in advance of the Summer. Best over the next 1-2 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?