Chianti Riserva Ducale Ruffino 1946
The 1946 Chianti Riserva Ducale is a historical red wine from the renowned Tuscan producer Ruffino. Founded in 1877 by cousins Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino in Pontassieve, a small town east of Florence in the Arno valley, the estate has been a central voice in the region for nearly a century and a half. The Riserva Ducale is the house's classic flagship wine, first introduced in 1927 and named in honor of the Duke of Aosta following his visit to the winery.
This wine originates from Chianti within Tuscany, one of Italy's most iconic wine regions with viticultural roots dating back to the Etruscans. It is crafted from Sangiovese, the undisputed principal grape of Italy, which forms the foundation for many of the region's classic wines. Sangiovese is widely cultivated across Tuscany, as well as in Umbria, Emilia-Romagna, and California.
The 1946 vintage is marked on the bottle as a "Vendemmia Scelta," indicating a selected harvest. The main label classifies the wine as "Stravecchio," a traditional Italian term denoting an extended aging period. Furthermore, the historical back label provides a glimpse into the era's perception of wine, describing it as a generous food complement and a restorative tonic. It notes a special vinification and aging process resulting in a wine free of sugars, which at the time was historically recommended for convalescents and the elderly.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Tuscany
Tuscany is one of Italy's most iconic wine regions, with roots reaching back to the Etruscans. Sangiovese is the undisputed principal grape and forms the basis for classics such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. From the 1970s the prestigious Super Tuscans also emerged along the coast. The rolling hills produce structured red wines with cherry, herbs and firm tannins.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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How it handles
you your wine
Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
GUIDE TO THE GOOD WINE EXPERIENCE
We will help you throughout the journey. Here you can read our guide on how to treat the wine. If you have any questions, you are always welcome to write or call us.
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