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.
Straw colored. 12.4% ABV. Charming nose of stone fruits, apple, lemon oil and grass. Medium body with perfect acidity. Rich and lush with tremendous mouth feel. Pear, Meyer Lemon, toast and vanilla creme brulee on the palate. The finish is long and supple. This will drink well for years to come.
My rating: 91 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?