# Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG (2014)

- **Producer:** Ruffino
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Colorino
- **Region:** Tuscany, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €40
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** plum, black plum, cranberry, eucalyptus, raspberry, cherry, violet, black cherry, oak spice, chocolate, cloves, cinnamon, gingerbread, vanilla, rosemary, tobacco, savory herb, eucalyptus, white pepper, underbrush, earth

## About this wine

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro 2014 is a Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG from Tuscany, Italy. Produced by Ruffino, this wine is crafted only in exceptional vintages, representing the winery's highest standard. The name 'Riserva Ducale Oro' has historical roots, linked to the Duke of Aosta's fondness for Ruffino wines in the late 1800s. The 'Oro' designation underscores its status as a flagship wine. The grapes are sourced from Ruffino's estates in the Castellina subregion of Chianti Classico, an area recognized for its specific soil types that contribute to the wine's character. The 2014 vintage presented a cooler growing season in Tuscany, often resulting in wines with distinct acidity and aromatic complexity.

## Interesting facts

- The 'Oro' (Gold) designation signifies its release only in exceptional years.
- Named after the Duke of Aosta's appreciation for Ruffino wines.
- Grapes are sourced from Ruffino's esteemed Gretole, Santedame, and Casavecchia di Cagnano estates.
- A Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is the highest tier of Chianti Classico.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-full body and silky tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like beef and game. Its good balancing acidity can cut through fattier dishes, cleansing the palate. The complex aromatics and savory notes in the wine can echo or contrast with herbs and earthy flavors in the food.

## Wine making process

The production of Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro 2014 involves hand-harvesting grapes from Ruffino's estates in the Castellina subregion. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks at 28°C for 10 days, followed by 10 days of post-fermentation maceration on the skins. Malolactic fermentation is carried out in concrete vats. The wine then undergoes a significant aging period of 36 months. This includes 12 months in concrete vats, 12 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, and a final 12 months in used barriques and tonneaux. Additional bottle aging precedes release.