A new chapter opens in the history of Ruffino. The historic Tuscan winery presents Garzaia Bolgheri Superiore DOC 2023, the first wine of the denomination produced entirely from Ruffino‑owned vineyards and entrusted to the expert hand of winemaker Olga Fusari, a leading figure in the Bolgheri wine scene. This debut marks the company’s official entry among the key players in one of the world’s most prestigious wine regions.
A Project Born in the Heart of Bolgheri
The idea behind Garzaia dates back to 2023, when Ruffino announced the acquisition of vineyards and land in the renowned Bolgheri denomination on the Livorno coast.
The goal was clear: to create a wine capable of interpreting Bolgheri with authenticity, identity, and a contemporary vision.
The Bolgheri DOC, which counts just 75 producers, is today an international icon. Garzaia will officially reach the market on 1 March 2026, positioned among the company’s fine wines, completing a portfolio that already includes emblematic labels such as:
- Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG
- Greppone Mazzi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
- Modus Primo
- Alauda
A new piece in Ruffino’s long journey through Tuscany’s most acclaimed appellations—a journey begun nearly 150 years ago.
An International Debut: The Garzaia Roadshow
The launch will be accompanied by an international roadshow touching key wine markets, started with a major appearance at Wine Paris.
“Bolgheri is where I began making wine and where I feel at home every time I return,” says Olga Fusari.
“Creating a new project is a rare opportunity in a winemaker’s career—a living, vibrant emotion that I hope will be felt in every sip of Garzaia.”
Garzaia: A Name Rooted in Nature
The name chosen for the new Bolgheri Superiore originates from the natural world.
A “garzaia” is a nesting area where various species of herons gather to build their nests just a few meters apart, in perfect balance between land and water.
A pristine environment reminiscent of the Bolgheri landscape and its deep connection with biodiversity.
Ruffino’s vineyards extend across 15 hectares, divided into two parcels located in the Le Sondraie and Le Bozze areas along the famous Via Bolgherese.
The Wine: Elegance, Balance, and Bolgheri Identity
Garzaia Bolgheri Superiore DOC 2023 is crafted exclusively from the vineyards of Le Sondraie, in the northern part of the denomination, characterized by deep, sandy‑clay soils low in limestone.
The blend pays tribute to the grape varieties that made Bolgheri famous:
- 70% Cabernet Franc — structure and aromatic complexity
- Merlot — softness and roundness
The result is a wine of striking balance and elegance.
The 2023 harvest benefited from stable, sunny weather, with a single significant rainfall in late August that replenished water reserves and enabled slow, complete ripening.
Ageing involves 18 months in French oak barriques (70% new, 30% second‑use), a choice designed to enhance varietal expression and the character of the territory.
“Garzaia speaks the language of elegance and finesse, clearly expressing its Bolgheri origins,” concludes Fusari.
Ruffino: 147 Years of History and Vision
Founded in 1877 in Pontassieve by cousins Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino, the winery was born from a single dream: bringing the “ideal wine” to tables around the world.
Today, Ruffino is present in over 80 countries, with estates in Tuscany’s most prestigious denominations and a production philosophy rooted in tradition, innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Since 2023, the company has embarked on a profound transformation with the ambition of becoming a benchmark for high‑end Tuscan wines.
A vision expressed through uncompromising quality, environmental stewardship, and a renewed interpretation of Tuscan identity in a contemporary key.
