The garnet-colored 1997 D2 has a delightful violet, rose, and dark berry-infused nose. This is an elegant, medium-bodied wine with a sultry texture, black cherry, blackberry, and currant fruit. This feminine, well-made wine exhibits exemplary ripeness in its supple, soft, tannin-filled finish. Drink it over the next 6-7 years. Tel. (425) 489-0544.

This is DeLille’s second-tier blend (of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc) and honors the name of the route du vin that winds through Bordeaux. Like the deuxieme wines of the classified-growth chateaus, it is blended from barrel selections not quite right for the star wine (in this case Chaleur Estate) but nonetheless mighty fine. Toasty and dark, with cedar, leather and spice dominating, it’s all about bright, polished fruit with layers of complexity.——P.G.(6/1/2000)—— 88