Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from estate-owned vineyards and selected historic Chianti Classico growers with whom Ruffino maintains long-term partnerships. The vineyards lie at 250–450 m above sea level. Their soils vary but are predominantly silty clay, rich in limestone and the galestro characteristic of Chianti Classico.
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 assisting extraction. Maceration lasts from 10 to 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. The assembled wine subsequently spends another nine months in concrete and three months in bottle before release. The product page summarizes the élevage as 24 months in stainless-steel vats and large oak casks.
Technical data
Alcohol: 15%. Serving temperature: 16–18 °C.
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.
Vintage notes
The 2022 season combined hot weather and low rainfall with balanced conditions during harvest.
Label / history
The Duke of Aosta visited Pontassieve in 1890 and subsequently selected Ruffino as a supplier to the royal household. Produced since 1927, Riserva Ducale was named in his honour and has retained its emblematic label. Its use of “Riserva” in the wine’s name predates the formal creation of that category. The 2021 vintage placed No. 17 in Wine Spectator’s 2025 Top 100.
