Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from Ruffino-owned vineyards and selected historic Chianti Classico growers with whom the producer maintains long-term partnerships. The vineyards lie at 250–450 m above sea level. Their soils vary but are predominantly silty clay and limestone-rich; clay, limestone and abundant galestro define the broader terroir description.
Grapes
The latest published vintage, 2022, is 80% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot.
Vinification
Alcoholic fermentation and maceration take place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks with pump-overs. Maceration lasts between 10 and 20 days according to the vintage.
Ageing
Sangiovese matures for at least 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks, while Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon mature in barriques and tonneaux. Afterward, the assembled wine spends another nine months in concrete and three months in bottle before release. The concise product-page specification describes the overall élevage as 24 months in stainless-steel vats and large oak casks.
Technical data
The 2022 wine has 15% alcohol by volume.
Tasting profile
Ruby red. The bouquet combines violet, cherry, wild berries and plum with nuances of tobacco, clove and eucalyptus. The palate is balanced and boldly structured, with delicate tannins, vibrant Sangiovese acidity and a persistent finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16–18 °C.
Vintage notes
The 2022 growing season was hot and dry, with little rainfall, followed by balanced conditions during harvest.
Label / history
The name honors the Duke of Aosta, who visited Pontassieve in 1890, admired a special Chianti kept in Ruffino’s cellar and appointed Ruffino supplier to the royal household. Riserva Ducale has been produced since 1927 and retains the historic name and label. Its use of “Riserva” in the wine’s name predates the creation of the regulatory category. The 2021 vintage placed No. 17 in Wine Spectator’s 2025 Top 100.
