The dark ruby-colored 1997 Chianti Classico Bellavista (8,000 bottles produced) is filled with finesse and elegance. Intense black cherry aromas intertwined with berry fruit, tobacco, and spice box are followed by good denseness and richness, medium to full body, sweet tannin, and an impeccable sense of symmetry and balance. This youthful Chianti is approachable, and should drink well for a decade. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Dark ruby-garnet, with powerful aromas of dried fruits, from raisin to dates. Very Porty. Full-bodied, with a round and very soft mouthfeel, beautiful ripe fruit and a long, long finish. Wonderful wine.--1997 Italian blind retrospective. Drink now through 2017. 680 cases made. -JS