Riserva Ducale Stravecchio
⏳ Drinking Window
2016 - 2026
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Slow-roasted wild boar ragù, grilled Bistecca alla Fiorentina, and aged Pecorino Toscano cheese.
✨ Technical Specifications
Ruffino's Riserva Ducale Stravecchio holds a legendary place in Tuscan winemaking history, tracing its lineage back to the late 19th century when the Duke of Aosta appointed Ruffino as the official supplier to the Italian Royal House. First officially released in 1947 as an extra-aged ('stravecchio') selection of the finest vintages, this wine represents the historical precursor to the modern Riserva Ducale Oro. Sourced from prestigious estate vineyards in the heart of Chianti Classico, the blend is anchored by Sangiovese, complemented by small portions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The grapes thrive in the region's classic galestro and alberese soils, which impart a distinct mineral complexity. Traditional long maceration is followed by extensive aging in both large Slavonian oak casks and barriques, yielding a wine of profound depth, velvety tannins, and notes of dark cherry, leather, and tobacco.
🍾 About the Producer
Founded in 1877 by cousins Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino in Pontassieve near Florence, Ruffino has grown to become one of the most iconic ambassadors of Tuscan winemaking. The estate gained early prestige as an official supplier to the Italian royal court, immortalized in its flagship Riserva Ducale, first crafted in 1927 in honor of the Duke of Aosta. Today, Ruffino manages prime estate vineyards across Tuscany's premier denominations, including Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Bolgheri, blending classic regional traditions with forward-thinking viticultural techniques. Renowned for its masterfully structured Sangiovese-driven red wines, vibrant Super Tuscans like Modus, and an array of expressive whites and sparkling wines, the house remains dedicated to expressing the timeless character and elegance of Italian terroir.
🍇 Grape Varieties
Sangiovese (min 80%), Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon