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 grapes are primarily sourced from Oakley Road Vineyard where the vines date back to the 1920’s.
Crimson in color. 14.2% ABV. Charming nose of red fruits, peach and baking spices. Medium body with medium acidity. The fruits are earthy and rustic. Cherry, strawberry, cranberry and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. The body on this wine does not hold up to the incredibly appealing nose but this Zinfandel will be fun to drink for the next several years. I’ll open another bottle in 2028.
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?