IL DUCALE 2005

Toscana IGT

VINTAGE

2005

VARIETALS

60% Sangiovese, 25% Merlot, 15% Syrah

VINEYARDS

Place of production: the grapes for Il Ducale are sourced in vineyards located in the most prestigious vine growing areas of Tuscany. Ruffino's estate vineyards also contribute to the production of this wine.

Soils: The soil is characteristic for most of central Tuscany with an abundant presence of Galestro rock and a moderate amount of clay.

The microclimate is variable from one area to another which confers richness and complexity to the wine.

Altitude: Variable from 220 to 450 meters above sea level

Growing system: Cordon trained.

Vine density: 3000-5000 vines per hectare

VINIFICATION AND AGEING    

Picking for Il Ducale started mid-September for the Merlot and continued in October with the Sangiovese and the Syrah. 

The fermentation took place in stainless-steel vats at a controlled temperature of 26/28°C for approximately 8 days. The maceration on the skins continued for another 8-10 days.

After completing the malo-lactic fermentation Il Ducale is aged for about 12 months in barrrique, tonneaux and stainless steel tanks before being bottled.

Alcohol content: 13% vol.

SENSORY PROPERTIES

Colour: Ruby red

Aroma: The bouquet is fruity and inviting, with notes of plums, cherries, black berries, and mulberries. The Syrah adds pleasant spicy hints which intertwine with scents of undergrowth and Mediterranean herbs, characteristic of Sangiovese and with the softness and roundness of the Merlot.

Tasting profile: The taste is well-balanced, with a rich, fruity core and sweet, yet fragrant tannins. Elegant notes of nutmeg and cigar box meet with layers of wild cherries and blue plums, leading towards a refreshing and long-lasting aftertaste, where hints of fresh mint leaves and plain chocolate appear.

A modern Tuscan wine born from Ruffino's century old winemaking tradition. 

First Vintage: 2003