Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro is the flagship of one of Tuscany's most famous wine houses, here in a 1.5 liter magnum. First created in 1947 as a special selection of Riserva Ducale, it anticipated the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione category by decades, and today one in every four bottles of Gran Selezione opened in the world is Riserva Ducale Oro.
The wine comes entirely from Ruffino's estates of Gretole and Santedame in Castellina in Chianti, where the vineyards sit 300 to 450 metres above sea level on well-drained hillsides rich in shale and limestone. The blend is 80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Colorino.
After fermentation and maceration of about 20 days in temperature-controlled stainless steel, the wine ages for 30 months in total: Sangiovese in large Slavonian oak casks and the Merlot and Cabernet in barriques and tonneaux for 12 months, followed by time in concrete and at least three months in bottle.
Recent vintages have earned 95 points from James Suckling and 96 from Doctor Wine. The magnum format ages more slowly and gracefully than a standard bottle and makes a grand centrepiece for a dinner party.
Tasting Notes
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Colour: Ruby red with garnet hues.
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Nose: Intense cherry, plum and violet, opening to eucalyptus, black pepper and coffee bean.
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Palate: Impressive structure with elegant, soft tannins and fresh acidity.
Specifications
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Producer: Ruffino
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Appellation: Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG
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Blend: 80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Colorino
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Ageing: 30 months in total, including Slavonian oak casks, barriques and tonneaux
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Region: Castellina in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
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ABV: 14%
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Size: 1.5L magnum
How to Enjoy It
Open the magnum an hour ahead or decant it, and serve at about 60 to 64°F. Riserva Ducale Oro is made for the Tuscan table: bistecca alla fiorentina, wild boar ragù, roast lamb and aged pecorino.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grapes are in Riserva Ducale Oro?
80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Colorino.
Where is it made?
On Ruffino's Gretole and Santedame estates in Castellina in Chianti, Tuscany.
How long is it aged?
30 months in total, in large Slavonian oak, barriques and tonneaux, concrete and bottle.
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