Casa Ruffino – Tenuta Poggio Casciano | Tuscany Address

It’s become one of the most famous wines in Tuscany, after 140 years of history.

Just 30 minutes south of Florence is the legendary Casa Ruffino, nestled in the tranquil landscape of Tenuta Poggio Casciano. This is where elegant architecture inspired by the Renaissance period intertwines with outstanding wines that flow along stories from the past. 

Ruffino was founded in 1877, by cousins Llario and Leopoldo with one mission in mind: to start a small winery near Florence, and to become one of the first Italian wineries to export Chianti wines to the U.S. After World War II, the business expanded even further, leading to its icon status today as one of the most historical wineries in Italy, focusing on traditional winemaking techniques with new approaches. 

 

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The entire estate sits on the peaceful Chianti hills, exuding Renaissance charm. Our experience started with an abundantly delicious meal at Ruffino’s in-house restaurant: Tre Rane where beautiful plates of modern takes on regional Tuscan cuisine were royally served. Each dish was decadent presented, from a Tuscan favorite: chicken liver pâté, to pasta al tartufo. Inside the stylish restaurant, artworks from the ORObyRUFFINO collection illuminate brightly. It was no surprise that they were created for Milan Design Week.

Wine tasting is surely available during lunch but Ruffino can also customize wine tastings based on the types of wines that visitors would like to try. Since the wine label embodies 140 years of history, Ruffino carries more than 20 types of lovely wines. Some favorites were the Aqua di Venus – inspired by Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus”; as well as the Greppone Mazzi Brunello di Montalcino – the quintessential choice in Tuscany. This collection is particularly sourced from Ruffino’s estate in Montalcino, at 460 meters above sea level, aged for 36 months in oak barrels and stainless steel tanks. Expect to taste cherries, plums, and even hints of chocolate notes. 

Lucky for travelers, this is the only winery close enough from Florence via a taxi. One can also opt to stay at Casa Ruffino, a boutique hotel inside a Renaissance villa surrounded by orange trees and rolling vineyards.