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. 13.2% ABV. Equal parts Bechthold Vineyard Cinsault, Spenker Ranch Carignane and Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel. All of these vineyards date back over 100 years. Savory nose of red fruits, citrus, warm asphalt and soil. Light to medium body with medium acidity. Crisp and refreshing. Cherry, strawberry, nectarine and minerals on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Approachable, easy to drink and a breath of fresh air on a sultry Summer night in Seattle. Best over the next 1-2 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?