“Packaged with its distinctive yellow label, the Ruffino 2017 Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale opens to a lean raspberry or ruby color with bright aromas of tart cherry and wild plum. This is a recognized, well-traveled wine and a mini-ambassador for Chianti Classico around the world. The reasons for the wine’s popularity are directly linked to the varietal purity and Tuscan personality on display.”-90WA, 2021-2025
This fabled Ruffino wine has been one of the most prized Chianti since it was first released in 1927. Riserva Ducale is crafted using modern winemaking techniques to enhance traditional Italian methods and is widely acknowledged as a benchmark for Chianti Classico Riserva. Why this name? Ducale means ‘duke’ in Italian. Riserva Ducale honors the Duke of Aosta who braved a journey over the Alps to taste the Ruffino wines that he had heard so much about. He was so impressed by the wine that in 1890 he appointed Ruffino as the official supplier to the Italian royal family. This honor is not only reflected in the wine’s name, but is depicted on its iconic label, one of the most recognized in the world of Italian wine.