This Tuscany gem is a blend of Sangiovese 50%, Cabernet Sauvignon 25%, and Merlot 25% Drinking window on this was 10 – 15 years. Again, let’s open it and see if it’s still holding together. This is 18 years old.
This was Ruffino’s ‘Super Tuscan’ offering with a reputation for being refined, polished tannins, elegant, with loads of depth and complexity, with impressive integration.
The nose shows some age but is not past its prime. Delightful aromas of blackberries, plums, and dark cherries dominate with a promise of more to come.
The palate is velvety soft with well-integrated, gentle layers of blackberries, dark cherries, plums, leather, tobacco, and gamey, an almost meaty note, with traces of dark chocolate, spices, and olives to round things out.
This may not be drinking at its absolute peak, but it’s exceptionally close. This has been stored well since I purchased it, a necessary condition to buying a 2008 if you happen to see it.
Food pairings should include Osso buco, Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Braised short ribs, Mushroom risotto, Chicken Cacciatore, and aged Pecorino, or any other aged Italian hard cheese.
Vine to Table 