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.
Ruby red in color. 12.8% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, earth and flowers. Light to medium body with medium acidity. Ethereal and delicate. Strawberry, cranberry, soil and a hint of pepper on the palate. The finish is long and supple. Delicious and easy to drink. The bottle disappeared in no time on a warm Summer night. Best over the nest 2-4 years.
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?