Sandlands
Lodi Chenin Blanc
Lodi, Central Valley, California, USA
My first 2018 Chenin Blanc from Sandlands (not sure how I was so patient to leave one of these until now). Typical of this project, the ABV is very modest at 12%. Popped and poured; consumed over two days with consistent experiences both nights. On the nose, soft white flowers, slightly underripe pear, honeysuckle and lime. Just the slightest touch wooly. On the palate, it’s pear, lime and chamomile. Acid is high but not bracing. Nice, almost creamy finish. Overall, this is balanced and technically very good, straight down the line Chenin Blanc and paired amazingly well with bacon wrapped scallops. Yet, I just wasn’t as excited about this effort compared to previous vintages. The fruit for this bottle was sourced from their estate vineyard in the Mokelumne River AVA which is a relatively recent addition within the larger Lodi AVA. I’m not sure how old this fruit is but I sort of get the sense that the best is yet to come from these vines. Still, very tasty and technically excellent.
My first 2018 Chenin Blanc from Sandlands (not sure how I was so patient to leave one of these until now). Typical of this project, the ABV is very modest at 12%. Popped and poured; consumed over two days with consistent experiences both nights. On the nose, soft white flowers, slightly underripe pear, honeysuckle and lime. Just the slightest touch wooly. On the palate, it’s pear, lime and chamomile. Acid is high but not bracing. Nice, almost creamy finish. Overall, this is balanced and technically very good, straight down the line Chenin Blanc and paired amazingly well with bacon wrapped scallops. Yet, I just wasn’t as excited about this effort compared to previous vintages. The fruit for this bottle was sourced from their estate vineyard in the Mokelumne River AVA which is a relatively recent addition within the larger Lodi AVA. I’m not sure how old this fruit is but I sort of get the sense that the best is yet to come from these vines. Still, very tasty and technically excellent.
Aug 11th, 2020
Great balance of acidity, fruit, aroma, and texture. Love the phenolic line running throughout the palate and closing firm on the finish. ML and lees have added just enough richness. In right hands whites from Mediterranean climates can be so alluring.
Great balance of acidity, fruit, aroma, and texture. Love the phenolic line running throughout the palate and closing firm on the finish. ML and lees have added just enough richness. In right hands whites from Mediterranean climates can be so alluring.
Jun 28th, 2020
Needs a decant but after being open a bit this is singing.
Needs a decant but after being open a bit this is singing.
Sep 8th, 2021
One of the best CB out of California. small producer. @ the balance of fruit and tannins is near perfect. nice acidity clean in the mouth. And a good after taste I will order more if I can. 
One of the best CB out of California. small producer. @ the balance of fruit and tannins is near perfect. nice acidity clean in the mouth. And a good after taste I will order more if I can. 
Jan 29th, 2021
Restrained for me - subtle fruit, maybe too whispered.
Restrained for me - subtle fruit, maybe too whispered.
May 19th, 2020
Lemon meringue with a kiss of powdered sugar. Love the body, and the acidity balances everything out nicely. Love this wine year after year.
Lemon meringue with a kiss of powdered sugar. Love the body, and the acidity balances everything out nicely. Love this wine year after year.
Mar 16th, 2020