Tasting notes:

Based in Reims since 1811, this Champagne house was acquired by theRapeneau family in 2004. Since then, there has been an increased focus onexport markets. This wine, named after the great Italian violin maker AntonioStradivari, is exceptional. Mid-gold in hue with tiny bubbles and a narrowcordon, the wine shows green and yellow fruits, a brioche overlay and anintriguing note of hedgerow. Brut in style, the mid-weight, intense palateis very pretty, with floral notes framed by crisp acidity and satin moussetexture. Lingering and lifted, the wine is a good pairing for chicken Kiev.(Patricia Stefanowicz MW)