While not as problematic as last year's sample, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Clos du Roi is still only a solid effort. There's still a lifted, herbal quality to the aromas, a taut quality to the red-fruit flavors and an overall lack of generosity on the palate. At least the tannins are silkier than I remember them being—although they still leave a drying impression on the finish.