About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The wine is produced entirely from selected vineyards at Ruffino’s Gretole and Santedame estates in Castellina in Chianti. The vineyards stand at 300–450 m above sea level on deep, well-drained hillside soils rich in shale and limestone.
Grapes
The latest published vintage, 2021, is 80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Colorino.
Vinification
The grapes are carefully selected during harvest. Alcoholic fermentation and maceration take place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats for about 20 days, pursuing gentle extraction.
Ageing
Total maturation lasts 30 months. Sangiovese spends 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks, while Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon mature in barriques and tonneaux. After blending, the wine continues ageing in concrete vats and receives at least three months in bottle.
Tasting profile
Ruby red with garnet highlights. Cherry, plum and violet lead the aroma, followed by eucalyptus, black pepper and coffee bean. The palate has imposing structure, elegant soft tannins and supporting acidity. It is built to develop over decades.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18 °C.
Vintage notes
The 2021 season brought well-distributed spring rainfall and optimal weather during harvest.
Label / history
Riserva Ducale Oro was created in 1947 as a further selection of Riserva Ducale, anticipating the later Gran Selezione concept. Its gold label distinguished the new selection. The wine’s origins remain tied to Gretole and Santedame in Castellina in Chianti.