The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Romitorio di Santedame is a full-bodied Sangiovese from the region, blended along with 10% Colorino, that presents rich and nicely concentrated fruit. The bouquet is neatly folded together with tight offerings of black cherry, red blackberry, leather and crème de cassis. Dusty notes of earth or baked brick appear on the close. There's even a sharper note of pencil shaving. Ruffino suggests pairing this with tandoori chicken, which sounds like a great idea. Production is a mere 6,500 bottles.

Showing a ripe and robust personality, the 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Romitorio di Santedame is a wine of depth and dimension. The wine exhibits a polished and fine bouquet of aromas with wild cherry, red rose petal, spice and crushed rock at the front. It shows a dry, polished texture with plenty of fruit-driven endurance.