It would be hard to top the gorgeously delicious 1997 Chianti Classico. It is from a great vintage, so it possesses extra fruit, more glycerin, and that supple, sweet mid-palate that distinguishes great vintages from merely good ones. The wine reveals a dark ruby/purple color, and excellent blackberry, cherry, and strawberry fruit with some of the tell-tale leather that comes from the Sangiovese grape. With excellent texture, medium body, and a sweet, ripe finish, this is a succulent Chianti to drink over the next 3-5 years. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900