About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from estate-owned vineyards and selected historic Chianti Classico growers with whom Ruffino maintains longstanding partnerships. The vineyards stand at 250–450 metres above sea level. Soils vary but are predominantly silty clay with abundant limestone; clay, limestone and galestro define the vineyard setting.
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 assisting extraction. Maceration lasts 10–20 days according to the vintage.
Ageing
The wine matures for at least 12 months. Sangiovese ages in large Slavonian oak casks, while Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon mature in barriques and tonneaux. The assembled wine then spends another nine months in concrete and three months in bottle before release.
Technical data
The 2022 wine has 15% alcohol by volume.
Tasting profile
Ruby red. Violet, cherry, wild-berry and plum aromas are followed by tobacco, clove and eucalyptus. The palate is balanced and boldly structured, with delicate tannins and vibrant Sangiovese acidity leading to a persistent finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16–18 °C.
Vintage notes
The 2022 season was hot and relatively dry, followed by balanced conditions during harvest.
Label / history
The Duke of Aosta encountered Ruffino's wine during an 1890 visit to Pontassieve and subsequently selected Ruffino as a supplier to the royal household. Produced since 1927, Riserva Ducale takes its name from the Duke. Its established name predates the regulatory category, allowing “Riserva” to remain part of the wine's name as well as its classification.