The 1997 Chassagne-Montrachet Les Vergers reveals spicy, ripe white fruits intermingled with a powerful minerality on the nose. This is an expansive, dense, fresh and medium-to-full-bodied wine with mineral and rock flavors. It beautifully combines the vintage's great ripeness with delineation and focus. Anticipated maturity: now-2005. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel (202) 832-9083.

Fairly crisp, but with a good amount of toasted oak and fruit. Medium-bodied, the finish seems a bit hard now, but cellar; it should soften to a silky beauty. Best from 2001 through 2005. 455 cases made. -PM