Ruffino Riserva Ducale Chianti Classico 2022

Cellar for up to 15 years. Decant for an hour before serving. Riserva Ducale is a full-bodied red wine from Chianti, sporting an elegant nose of blackberry, ripe plum and black cherry. As the wine opens up, you can also explore deeper hints of white pepper, rosemary, smoke and cloves. Riserva Ducale is a Chianti staple - it was first made in 1927, to recognise the Prince of Aostas patronage of the Ruffino family. Ruffino is one of the oldest wine houses in Tuscany. It was founded in 1877 by two cousins, Ilario and Leopoldo, who set up shop in the town of Pontassieve. The cousins won their first gold medal at the Milan Wine Exhibition in 1881, setting the standard for generations of winemakers to follow. Riserva Ducale begins with a velvety yet crisp mouthfeel. A medley of red and black fruits envelopes the tongue, with subtle hints of rose petals, tobacco and savoury herbs. Its sumptuous character is formed by a perfect combination of smooth tannins and well-integrated acidity. Riserva Ducale offers a taste of a centuries-old Tuscan tradition. It was aged for 27 months in all - 12 in oak, 12 in stainless steel, and 3 more in the bottle. Consider pairing this wine with red meat, mature cheeses, or savoury sauces.