2019 Sandlands Nebbiolo

This four-acre vineyard at 1,200 ft facing the ocean was bought by Joel Gott who grafted over the Nebbiolo vines to Cabernet so there was just one harvest. Passalacqua made just 220 cases from 3.5 tons of fruit. This is the Nebbiolo Fino clone from UC Davis which has been in California since the 19th century. From the new Fountaingrove District AVA above Santa Rosa on the Sonoma side of Diamond Mountain. It combines Diamond Mountain soils with Russian River Valley climate. Really rather convincingly varietal. Dusty, insistent tannins on the end after lots of fruit and refreshment. Long, very dry finish. What a shame it’s a one-off! (JR)