2016 AX-1 Sangiovese

Our AX-1 project aims to make the absolute best Sangiovese on this side of the Atlantic. This is Amador taking aim at Tuscany. The 2016, our 8th vintage, is 92.5% Sangiovese (Altesino clone, 7 separate lots -- fermented in either new French oak puncheons or neutral French oak puncheons with differing french oak chip additions), 3.5% Canaiolo Nero, 2% Aglianico, 1.5% Teroldego, and .5% Petite Sirah. Aged 3 ¾ years in French oak puncheons and then for almost another 3 years in bottle, AX-1 is a marathon runner – energetic, light on its feet, well-structured, and incredibly balanced.  Abundant notes of deep cherry accompanied by clove and earth. Crafted for the long-haul for a plate of pappardelle ragu... or steak and butter mushrooms.

"Winemaker Rusty Folena’s “science project” bottling is always a favorite to taste.  He is looking to push the envelope where Sangiovese is concerned, and it’s a joy to taste each vintage." -- Rich Cook - Wine Review Online (6/2022)

“Noceto’s distinctive AX-1 Sangioveses are given extended age, first in barrel and then in bottle before leaving the winery. This 2016 version is the current release and is a deep, very rich wine with plenty of fruity flesh on its very firm structural bones. Far from a simple “spaghetti red” meant for immediate drinking, it is a solid, well-extracted look at variety whose obvious ripeness gives it an emphatic Californian voice, and it, in no way, seems old or even near to reaching its peak. While a good match with meaty fare should one choose to pour it in the short term, it has room to grow and will continue to do just that for no fewer than another half-dozen years.” --  Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine - 90 points | 1 puff