Ruffino 2008 Gold Label Riserva Ducale Oro
I recently discussed and reviewed Ruffino 2010 Tan Label Riserva Ducale Chianti Classico, (see June 20, 2014 review). Briefly I mentioned that Ruffino has a long history and enjoys more than a century of fine winemaking in Tuscany. In 1870, two men (cousins) with a common dream founded Ruffino. Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino laid the foundation for what was to become one of the most known and loved Italian wineries in the world. One of the first and most prominent admirers of Ruffino wines was without doubt the Duke of Aosta, who at the end of the nineteenth century appointed Ruffino supplier to his house. The Duke’s appreciation was made official in the form of a Ducal certificate. From this event stems the origin of the name and the history of Riserva Ducale, born in 1927, a wine originally produced as Chianti Stravecchio, according to the production rules of the time, and subsequently reclassified as Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG. Twenty years after the first release of Riserva Ducale in 1927, Ruffino produced its first Riserva Ducale Oro to commemorate an exceptional vintage year. That tradition continues today. Riserva Ducale Oro is produced only in outstanding vintages. If the grapes don’t meet the winemaker’s exacting standards, the wine will not be made.
The 2008 Gold Label Riserva Ducale Oro seeks an even higher level of quality by starting with the finest, hand-harvested grapes, primarily from Ruffino’s Gretole, Santedame and Montemasso estates, and continuing with impeccable standards throughout all phases of winemaking. Because Riserva Ducale Oro is noted for its extraordinary cellaring, many of their past vintages can still be enjoyed today.
Ruffino’s 2008 Riserva Ducale Oro is comprised of 80% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot grapes. The wine is aged for 36 months in vats, sits in French oak casts for 12 months and bottle aged for at least 6 months prior to release. Opening a bottle, which I let breathe for about 45 minutes, I notice a vibrant ruby red color that tones out to crimson edges. The aromas of red fruit, cherries, plums, and wild mushrooms are present on the nose. On the palate the fruit develops nicely with tangy cherries and dark fruit coming forth along with hints of sweet spice, tobacco and dark chocolate. The finish shows well developed tannins with a good balance of oak. This wine is a tremendous value for around $30 and you should grab a few bottles for the cellar as the increasing euro is putting pressure on the price.
Cheers!