Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Fruit comes from Ruffino's estate-owned vineyards and selected historic Chianti Classico growers with whom it maintains long-standing partnerships. The vineyards lie at 250–450 m. Soils vary but are predominantly silty clay with abundant limestone; clay, limestone and galestro define the broader profile.
Grapes
Latest published vintage (2022): 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 varies from 10 to 20 days according to the vintage; the current shop description gives approximately 16 days.
Ageing
Sangiovese matures for at least 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks, while Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon rest in barriques and tonneaux. The wine then spends another nine months in concrete and three months in bottle before release.
Technical data
The 2022 vintage has 15% alcohol.
Tasting profile
Ruby red. The 2022 profile opens with violet, cherry, wild berry and plum, followed by tobacco, clove and eucalyptus. It is balanced and firmly structured, with delicate tannins, vibrant Sangiovese acidity and a persistent finish. The expanded product description adds amaretto, ink, spice, dark chocolate and a final leather nuance.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16–18 °C. Pair with traditional Tuscan dishes, grilled meats, fresh or filled pasta in hearty sauces, and game.
Vintage notes
The 2022 season was hot and dry, followed by balanced weather during harvest.
Label / history
The Duke of Aosta visited Ruffino in Pontassieve in 1890 and, impressed by its Chianti, appointed the company a supplier to the royal household. Produced since 1927, Riserva Ducale was named in his honour and has remained a Ruffino flagship. Its established name predates the regulatory use of the term “Riserva.” The 2021 vintage placed No. 17 in Wine Spectator's 2025 Top 100.
