The medium-to-dark ruby-colored 1997 Anjou-Villages-Brissac was produced from equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, 20% of which was aged for 18 months in one year oak barrels. Displaying a fabulous nose of blueberries, cherries, and violets, it has a medium-bodied core with excellent depth of fruit. Blue and black fruits, intermingled with metallic shavings can be found in this silky wine. Its finish does reveal some rusticity, but not enough to flaw this delicious wine. Drink it over the next 5 years. Importer: Fruit of the Vine, New York, NY; (212) 459-9703, and Pivotal, Inc., North Hollywood, CA; tel (818) 503-4290.

The dark-colored 1996 Anjou-Villages-Brissac's spicy blackberry aromas lead to its chewy, medium-bodied character. Dark fruits are interspersed with iron in this well-ripened, medium-bodied, and silky wine. Projected maturity: now-2004.Importer: Fruit of the Vine, New York, NY; (212) 459-9703, and Pivotal, Inc., North Hollywood, CA; tel (818) 503-4290.