At a glance

Producer

Sandlands

Region

Amador County, California, USA

Grape variety

Chenin Blanc

Wine type

White

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Crisp citrus, green apple, pear with floral and minerality notes

Evolution: Over 2-4 years will gain richer honeyed and nutty character while maintaining balanced acidity

At peak: Peak expression shows integrated fruit and subtle complexity with refreshing finish

Structure

Acidity

High, crisp and refreshing

Tannins

None to negligible (typical for white Chenin Blanc)

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

5-7 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2027

Optimal window

2023 to 2028

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Fresh, vibrant acidity with developing fruit complexity

The 2022 vintage in Amador County provided ripe Chenin Blanc grapes with balanced acidity and moderate alcohol. Given Chenin Blanc's natural high acidity and the wine's dry style, it will evolve gracefully over 5-7 years, reaching peak complexity after 2-4 years of bottle age before gradually softening.

Food pairing

Pairs well with seafood dishes, chicken with herbs, salads, goat cheese, and mildly spiced Asian cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Sandlands is a small-batch producer practicing sustainable viticulture including minimal pesticide use, cover cropping, and water conservation techniques

While Sandlands does not hold official organic or biodynamic certifications, their attention to sustainable farming practices such as water conservation and soil health contribute to an above-average sustainability score. The local production for US distribution reduces transportation emissions compared to imports.