Friday, October 4, 2013

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro 2007 Chianti Classico

This Chianti was scored during a visit to Chicago. A thoughtful hotel provided this reserve Chianti along with a nice platter of cheeses, fruit and crackers.
As I gazed out on the Navy Pier from my perch surrounded by skyscrapers I grabbed for the corkscrew a few times. However, there’s no sense letting a beautiful bottle like this go to waste – I couldn’t possibly finish it all myself (or could I?).
The Chianti waited until I returned home and could open it with the Green Dragon. This wine was tailor-made for a pasta dish she created – but she ended up adding a half cup to the sauce and we drank the wine after finishing the meal.
That probably was a mistake as this Italian is a perfect food wine. It comes out a bit hot with strong tannins – no doubt from spending 36 months aging in oak. The wine levels out quickly with an unbelievably smooth body.
The Ruffino is 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. This bottle is a special commemorative edition celebrating 60 years of the “gold label” Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro.
Flavor notes of wild berry, chocolate and spice swirl around deeper tobacco and leather notes. The tannins are tight, but the experience is invigorating and elegant. We enjoyed this with a selection of Gouda that softened the edge perfectly.
The wine sells for about $45 and will make the perfect match for a full flavored Italian meal.
Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 2.5 of 5
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