Ruffino Riserva Ducale Chianti Classico
Ruffino Riserva Ducale Chianti Classico is an ~14% ABV red wine from Tuscany's Chianti Classico DOCG — 80% Sangiovese with 20% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 24 months in oak, stainless steel, and concrete vats with three additional months in bottle. A wine with royal roots: the name honors the Duke of Aosta, who chose Ruffino as supplier to the Italian royal household in 1890, and the Riserva Ducale label has carried the Riserva name since 1927 — before the category itself formally existed. Cherry, violet, tobacco, and white pepper on the nose; velvety tannins, firm acidity, and a lingering rosemary finish on the palate. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: ~14% (vintage-dependent; listed 13–15%)
- Size: 750mL
- Varietal: 80% Sangiovese, 20% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aging: 24 months in oak, stainless steel, and concrete; 3 months in bottle
- Origin: Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany, Italy — Ruffino estates since 1877
A Name Older Than the Category
Riserva Ducale is one of the rare wines entitled to use the term "Riserva" in its name outright — it was establishing the concept before wine law caught up. Ruffino was also the first producer to commit seriously to the Chianti Classico region, building a presence across three estates and more than 200 hectares within the appellation. Browse more Italian wines or see the full Ruffino lineup.
Tasting Notes
Color: intense ruby red. Nose: cherry and violet with delicate hints of tobacco, white pepper, and flint. Palate: well balanced with velvety tannins and firm acidity. Finish: lingering rosemary.
How to Enjoy
Serve at around 60°F. Classic with prosciutto and antipasti, mushroom risotto, pasta Bolognese, or chicken cacciatore — the structure also lets it age two to five years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grapes are in Ruffino Riserva Ducale? 80% Sangiovese with 20% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
How long is Riserva Ducale aged? 24 months in oak, stainless steel, and concrete vats, plus three months in bottle before release.
A Tuscan classic with royal roots — order Ruffino Riserva Ducale online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.