Tegan Passalacqua is one of the hardest-working vignerons in our country. In addition to being the head winemaker and vineyard manager for Turley, where he oversees "vineyard-to-bottle" production of over 30 wines, he also found the time to start his own winery.
Sandlands is Tegan's passion project, and the focus here is on the forgotten classic California varieties, primarily grown in decomposed granite (sand), from regions and vineyards that have been farmed for many generations but have remained the outliers of California viticulture.
In the glorious 2021 vintage, Tegan produced 14 barrels of his Lodi Zin. All of the fruit comes from the famed Kirschenmann Vineyard, on the east side of Lodi's Mokelumne River AVA. Planted in 1915 in silica rich, white sandy soils, these old, gnarled vines have stood the test of time. They provide the "material" for this beautiful Red Zin.
- These are some of the oldest Zinfandel vines in all of California. Click HERE for a picture of these head-trained, dry-farmed, own-rooted vines.
- From old vines come righteous wines, and this is "a wine of pure and total charm," said Antonio Galloni of Vinous Media. He went on to call it "complex and layered" and said the "2021 seems to have an extra dimension of nuance compared to previous releases."
- For less than $45, you're getting a wine from one of our country's best winemakers composed of fruit from one of the oldest vineyards in the US. That's not something I get to say very often :)
- I love the combination of old vine concentration and elegance found in this wine. It showcases classic aromas and flavors of warm cherry, black raspberry, black tea, violet, and peppery spice. It finishes with silky tannins and a nice burst of juicy acidity.
We will apply any applicable discounts once we receive your order. We will then send you a follow-up email with your new total and instructions for payment.
