I have been tasting wines since 1968, first as a serious amateur, and then, since 1978, as a professional critic. I can unequivocally state that this is one of the finest Italian sparkling wines I have ever had. It establishes a new reference point for this category in Italy. It would unquestionably hold its own in a blind tasting against the finest French Champagne ... something I always thought to be impossible. In short, it blew me away. Superb, the 1995 Grand Cuvee (a blend of 72% Chardonnay and 28% Pinot Noir) is reminiscent of a structured, full-bodied vintage of Dom Perignon. It displays an excellent, clean nose of ripe, honeyed wheat thins and buttery fruit. Superb purity, impeccable delineation, and a long, dry, flavorful finish result in a terrific sparkling wine that will age nicely for 3-4 years. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900