Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The wine is produced entirely from selected vineyards at Ruffino's Gretole and Santedame estates in Castellina in Chianti. The hillside sites stand at 300–450 m and have deep, well-drained soils rich in shale and limestone.
Grapes
Latest published vintage (2021): 80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Colorino.
Vinification
Grapes are carefully selected during harvest. Alcoholic fermentation and maceration proceed in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats for approximately 20 days, with gentle extraction.
Ageing
Total maturation lasts 30 months. Sangiovese spends 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks, while Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon mature in second-use barriques and tonneaux. After blending, the wine ages in concrete vats and rests for at least three months in bottle.
Tasting profile
Ruby red with garnet reflections. Cherry, plum and violet lead the aroma, followed by eucalyptus, black pepper, coffee bean and chocolate nuances. The palate is impressively structured, with elegant, soft tannins supported by fresh acidity.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18 °C with traditional Italian meat dishes.
Vintage notes
The 2021 season brought well-distributed spring rainfall and optimal weather during harvest.
Label / history
Riserva Ducale began in 1927 as a tribute to the Duke of Aosta. In 1947, an exceptional vintage inspired a further selection with the same label rendered in gold: the first Riserva Ducale Oro, anticipating the later Gran Selezione concept. It is structured to develop over decades.
The Gold Fever limited edition consists of 1,877 numbered magnums. Its bottle bears a hand-crafted ceramic plate painted with gold lustre, inspired by the Officine Saffi Lab artwork presented during Milano Design Week 2024.
