Mini-Vertical of Ruffino Modus
The name of Ruffino is synonymous with Tuscan wine for many people in the world, especially when it comes to Chianti Classico. Its best wines include the legendary Ducale Riserva Oro Chianti Classico and intense Super Tuscan red Modus, a blend of sangiovese with cabernet sauvignon and merlot. The latter was first made in 1997 and is consistently outstanding. James tasted various vintages of this red and in this blog, we selected five of its most recent vintages from 2008 to 2012, so you can understand how the wines have evolved. The 2012 vintage, one of the highest rated reds from the winery, will also be on pour at our Great Wines of Italy event in New York (Feb. 23), Los Angels (Feb. 25) and San Francisco (Feb. 28).
James is also a great fan of the refined and pure Brunello di Montalcino from the estate of Greppone Mazzi. This particular wine has always had a freshness and firmness to it, harking back to a more traditional style.
Constellation Brands Inc., the premium wine conglomerate, bought Ruffino in 2011 under some scrutiny, but James has found the wines of the iconic brand have actually gotten better ever since.
Below are the wines arranged by score; click on names for tasting notes and scores.