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.
Sourced from Spenker Ranch Vineyard in Lodi which was planted in the early 1900’s.
Bright crimson in color. 13.2% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, citrus and flowers. Medium body with mouth watering acidity. Crisp, light and refreshing. Cherry, cranberry, blood orange and minerals on the palate. The finish is long and spicy. Easy to drink on a warm Summer night but lacking the depth of fruit to be truly special. 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?