The medium to dark ruby-colored 1997 Beaune Bressandes has excellent depth to its smoky, waxy, licorice-like aromas. On the palate, it combines the creamy texture and opulent, forward flavors of super-ripe baked red and black fruits with a structured, firm personality. This medium-bodied and expressive wine possesses a long, complex finish that reveals copious quantities of soft tannins. Delicious today, it can be cellared for up to 7 years. Mlle. Chopin has every reason to be proud of her delicious 1997s. Yields were quite moderate, overall averaging 28 h/h, with a low of 20 h/h on the Beaune Marconnets, and none of the 1997s were chaptalized. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel (202) 832-9083.