Ruffino: A success story of tradition, innovation and sustainability
Nestled in the picturesque Tuscan hills of Chianti, the exclusive wineries of Tenute Ruffino Società Agricola combine traditional values and modern progress with unspoiled nature and valuable wine knowledge. Since its founding in 1877, the company has focused on carefully tended vineyards and sustainability, while modern techniques have always been a priority.
Ruffino founder with vision and passion
Visionary cousins Illario and Leopoldo Ruffino recognized at the time of their founding that the secret of top Tuscan wines lies in the respectful dialogue between man and nature. Today, the rapidly growing company employs 290 people and has 1,200 hectares of land, eight wineries and a production of 30 million bottles of wine marketed in 83 countries.
Ruffino convinces with diversity
Ruffino is known for its diversity of grape varieties, including Sangiovese, Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello), Cabernet, Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Colorino, Pinot Grigio, Glera and Chardonnay.
Strategic location and international recognition
Even then, the Ruffino cousins chose a strategic location for their winery in Pontassieve, near Florence, on Italy’s first railroad line and close to the port of Livorno and the railroad station. The successful strategy led Ruffino to become the first Italian wine brand to gain a foothold in Canada and the Nordic countries, winning numerous awards including the Bordeaux Gold Medal in 1895 and a personal tribute from Giuseppe Verdi.
Growth and success through the decades
In 1913 the Folonari family took over the management of the winery and successfully led it through the First World War and the American market. In the 1920s Ruffino built its corporate identity on the legendary Chianti wine and laid the foundation for its impressive development. In 1927 the first vintage of Riserva Ducale was produced and the company was appointed Royal Purveyor to the Duke of Aosta.
Rebirth and success after the Second World War
After the Second World War, it achieved a remarkable rebirth with the relaunch of the “Riserva Ducale Oro” in 1947, an excellent vintage that is now considered one of the most famous brands in the world.
Repositioning and precision viticulture
Ruffino has focused on precision viticulture in recent years and places great emphasis on vineyard management, taking into account the specifics of each site and the characteristics of each soil. Preventive and mechanical measures minimize the use of phytopharmaceuticals, resulting in higher average grape quality and lower environmental impact. Quality and sustainability go hand in hand at Ruffino.
Expert team for top quality at Ruffino
The company has assembled an outstanding team of oenologists and agronomists whose goal is to raise the quality of the wines to a very high level. Particular attention is paid to Chianti Classico, but also to SuperTuscans and Bolgheri.
Expansion into the prestigious Bolgheri wine-growing area
To expand its presence in one of the most important wine-growing areas in the world, the winery has recently completed the acquisition of two vineyards in Bolgheri, totaling 15 hectares, and is preparing to build a new winery. In the near future, a new Ruffino winery will be created, dedicated to the production of the prestigious Bolgheri wines: Bolgheri Superiore, Bolgheri Rosso and a white Bolgheri.