Zinfandel of the Month is a regular feature on Zinfandel Chronicles. Keep in mind that although the Zinfandel of the Month might be an older bottle, the current vintage will be one you can find at retail or via the mailing list.
The February Zinfandel of the Month is the 2018 Sandlands Zinfandel.
I chose this wine as my Zinfandel of the Month because it is the first Zinfandel from Sandlands.
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.
Kirschenmann Vineyard is situated on the East Side of Lodi’s Mokelumne River AVA and was planted in 1915.
Crimson in color. 14.4% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, citrus and flowers. Light to medium body with perfect acidity. Fresh, lithe and charming. Claret style Zinfandel. Raspberry, salmonberry, earth and minerals on the palate. Nice length on the finish. Fantastic Zinfandel that is absolutely true to the Sandlands house style. Best over the next 2-3 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 2020 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.
Tom, I’m drinking a 2019 Sandlands Zinfandel that arrived a week ago, and it is terrific. Pure, crisp/crunchy, and lip smacking. Medium bodied and true to the varieta, especially as grown in Lodi. Quite wonderful. I’m still nascent as far as Sandlands goes but this Zin is rather ideal. Salud.
I have one on deck for early next year. Thanks for taking one for the team!