Bottle Notes

2015 Sandlands Mataro Contra Costa County – Bottle Notes

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 and Chenin Blanc.

Bright red in color. 12.9% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, wet pavement, earth and flowers. Medium body with ample acidity. Fresh and racy with bright fruits. Bing cherry, cranberry, blood and baking spices on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Delicious, refreshing and easy to drink. Such a unique wine. Best over the next 1-3 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?

Sandlands fared well in The 2018 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.

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