Ruffino Chardonnay Libaio IGT 2023

Winery Background and History

Established in 1877 in Pontassieve, near Florence, Ruffino has been a prominent name in Italian winemaking for over 140 years. Founded by cousins Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino, the winery has built a reputation for producing wines that embody the rich heritage of Tuscany. Over the decades, Ruffino has expanded its portfolio to include a variety of wines that showcase the diverse terroirs of Italy, maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality and tradition.

Producer and Winemaker

Ruffino’s winemaking team is dedicated to crafting wines that harmoniously balance tradition with innovation. Their approach emphasizes expressing regional characteristics, ensuring each wine authentically reflects its terroir. Employing both time-honored and modern techniques, the team consistently produces wines of distinct personality and high quality.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Chardonnay grapes for Libaio are primarily sourced from Ruffino’s La Solatia estate, located near the medieval village of Monteriggioni in Tuscany. These vineyards benefit from a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm days and cool nights, which allows for optimal ripening of the grapes. The soil composition, rich in calcareous skeleton with an abundant presence of travertine, contributes to the development of grapes with balanced acidity and aromatic complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

After careful harvesting, the Chardonnay grapes undergo de-stemming and soft pressing. The must ferments in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 16°C for approximately eight days. Following fermentation, the wine is refined on the lees in stainless steel at a controlled temperature of about 10°C before bottling. This method enhances the wine’s structure and imparts a pleasant roundness to the palate.

Tasting Notes

Ruffino Libaio Chardonnay 2023 exhibits a brilliant straw yellow color. The bouquet is inviting, with refined notes of meadow flowers that elegantly transition into fragrant aromas of ripe golden apples, citrus fruits, and bananas. The finish offers an elegant touch of bread crust, typical of Chardonnay refined on the lees. On the palate, the wine is fresh and harmonious, with pleasant roundness well balanced by lively freshness. The finish is very aromatic and persistent, reminiscent of orange peel.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay pairs well with a variety of dishes. Its balanced acidity and fruit-forward profile make it an excellent companion to seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp or baked salmon. It also complements poultry dishes, like roasted chicken with herbs, and creamy pasta dishes. Additionally, it pairs nicely with soft cheeses and fresh salads.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the aromas and flavors of Ruffino Libaio Chardonnay 2023, serve it chilled at a temperature of 8-10°C (46-50°F). Using a medium-sized white wine glass will allow the bouquet to develop, providing an optimal tasting experience. It’s recommended to pour the wine shortly before serving to maintain its freshness.

Storage and Aging Potential

This wine is best enjoyed young to appreciate its fresh and vibrant character. It is recommended to consume it within 1-2 years of the vintage date. Store the bottle in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature to maintain its quality.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The blend consists of 88% Chardonnay and 12% Pinot Grigio.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%