Substantially less harmonious than the standout 2016, the 2017 Vacqueyras les Hautes Vacquieres, a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, starts with attractive aromas of peppered raspberries and blueberries. Those notes turn slightly confected on the medium to full-bodied palate, seeming almost sweet tasting, while some hard tannins abruptly clamp down on the finish.