Wine: Sensi Chianti Rufina

Country: Italy

Region: Tuscany

Designation: Chianti Rufina DOCG

Brand/Producer: Sensi

Grape Varietal: 80% Sangiovese and 20% Tuscan grapes

ABV: 13.5%

Type: Red

Code: 2929

Tasting Note

Ruby color with purple reflections. On the nose, it all about fresh fruit, blackberry, and cherry, most of all, accompanied by a subtle spicy fragrance. A fruity wine with young and supple tannins building good structure and balance.

Producer

A Tuscan winemaker family since 1890, Pietro Sensi began taking the wine he made from his vines to the markets. Four generations later, the Sensi name is respected throughout Tuscany for is quality wines and mission to take centuries old winemaking techniques into the future with modern tecnnology.

Ever since 1890, the Sensi family cultivates its vineyards in its two farms with passion and enthusiasm: the Tenuta del Poggio and the Calappiano Farm, ancient hunting residence of the Medici family in 1500s, composed of 100 hectares of vineyards and olive groves and whose principal production is Chianti, the chief wine in the ‘Classic’ line. These beautiful estates are typical of romantic Tuscany with elegant architecture and avenues lined with cypress trees.

Winemaking

Rufina is a historical wine production area due northeast of the city of Florence, on the slopes of the Tuscany-Romagna Apennines. A high and fresh area, characterized by major temperature fluctuations it produces Chianti wines that are full of body and character. 

Mostly Sangiovese grapes are fermented and macerated in stainless steel for about a month. During this time “delestage” takes place where the wine is pumped and cycled over the top of the tank to build more flavour and natural tannin in the wine. This is followed by malolactic fermentation which enhances the juiciness of the wine. Refinement in steel tanks with micro-oxygenation on fine lees for about six months adds some subtle vanilla biscuit flavours.

Fun Fact

As a part of Chianti DOCG, Rufina must contain at least 70% Sangiovese, with the remainder blended with Canaiolo, Colorino or international red varieties. Rufina is furthest from the coast, and boasts higher-elevation vineyards thanks to its location in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains.

Chianti Rufina is one of the smallest of the Chianti sub-zones, producing far less wine than Chianti Colli Senesi and Chianti Classico, so you’ll be (just about) forgiven for never hearing of it. But seeing “Rufina” after “Chianti” should be read as eagerly as one might dig around an X that marks the spot, for Chianti Rufina is hidden treasure.

Food pairing

Red meats, roast meats, especially lamb as well as grills. Also pairs well with charcuterie and aged cheeses.