Ruffino Il Ducale 2007

For more than 125 years Ruffino's production philosophy has reflected three fundamental concepts: knowledge of the territory, respect for the grand Tuscan winemaking traditions and passion for Sangiovese. The creation of Il Ducale is a new expression of Tuscan Sangiovese, this wonderful grape variety which never ceases to surprise wine makers worldwide with its versatility and its capacity to adapt to different climates and soils. Il Ducale is an elegant red wine with a distinctive Tuscan character - a wine to match the taste and dynamic life style of the modern wine lover. Wine Spectator scored it 90 points saying "A little lean, but there's plenty of ripe fruit, exhibiting berry and blueberry aromas and flavors, with hints of light toasty oak. This should soften with bottle age. Best after 2011."

Never a barn-burner, yet predictably good, the rustic and very real Ruffino Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale Tan stays steady on the palate with black fruit and sweet earth.

The bright flavors of cherry and raspberry feel tangy and light. Serve with a wedge of aged pecorino.

Dusty and a bit leathery on the nose, but there's fruit enough on the palate, fleshing out with black cherry and plum flavors and picking up touches of tobacco on the finish. At 80% Sangiovese and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, it's a harmonious blend designed to introduce new drinkers to Tuscan wines.

Never a barn-burner, yet predictably good, the rustic and very real Ruffino Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale Tan stays steady on the palate with black fruit and sweet earth.

A little lean, but with plenty of ripe fruit, exhibiting berry and blueberry aromas and flavors, with hints of light toasty oak. This should soften with bottle age. Best after 2011.

Wine Tasting NotesRuby red in color. The aromas present a distinct mix of floral and fruity notes; ripe plums, cherries and blackberries along with white pepper, roasted coffee and chocolate create a smooth and refined finish. On the palate, the medium-bodied wine is characterized by elegant, fruity notes and smooth, velvety tannins. An impressive finish with lingering notes of strawberry pie and raspberries.