Wine for the Weekend

Ruffino Riserva Ducale “Oro,” Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Tuscany, Italy 2010

Why does every summer long weekend wine have to be cheap and cheerful?

Not that there’s anything wrong with that (just hit the “Under $20” tab on the right to see how much we enjoy a vinous steal), but thinking to the three relaxing days ahead, our itineraries are filled with patio parties and backyard barbecues.  In anticipation of the burgers, steaks and ribs that will headline the menus, we’re reaching for a red that’s red-meat hearty. Enter Ruffino.

The top tier wine from the centuries-old Tuscan winery, it hit Vintages a few weeks ago, but there’s still plenty around. At over $40 it’s not exactly “cheap,” though it is cheerful, and fits in brilliantly on most al fresco dinner tables – no matter if your serving rib eye steaks, or classic hamburgers, like us (which was delicious, by the way).

Ruffino Riserva Ducale “Oro,” Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Tuscany, Italy 2010
$44.95 Vintages 353201
“Gran Selezione” is a relatively recent addition to the Chianti Classico law, having been introduced a year ago to highlight the region’s top wines. Here we have a Sangiovese dominated red blend, with the addition of 10% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. What results is a silky smooth, ruby red wine with some tart cherry notes mixing with earthy spice and stemmy herb. Fine tannins and bright acidity, we paired this to gourmet burgers for luxurious summer weekend dining.