Tasting notes:

Founded in 1877, Ruffino very quickly established a reputation for top-quality Chianti wines. Purchased by the Folonari family from Brescia in 1913, the high quality of the ranges continues today. This long-renowned and respected wine comes from the select vineyards of Gremole and Santedame in Castellina-in Chianti, in the heart of Chianti. A Gran Selezione, the wine has an almost opaque purple colour and open, ripe aromatics of plums, blackberry and morello cherry, with dark chocolate and accents of dried mint, black tea and springtime rhododendrons. The intriguing nose leads to a textured and layered palate with firm tannins and fresh acidity framing the concentrated flavours. Classic style with ageing potential. The cracked black pepper note on the finish suggests a pairing with roast leg of lamb or very well-aged hard cheeses. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)