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.

On par with the company's Gigondas, the 2016 Vacqueyras les Hautes Vacquieres is a ripe and supple blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre that spent six months in barrel. This medium to full-bodied, moderately rich wine's strong suit is its velvety texture, which carries the notes of plum and garrigue easily across the palate. It should drink well for 5-8 years.

Similar to the 2013, the 2014 Vacqueyras les Hautes Vacquieres has lots of forward, dark fruits, licorice and Provencal garrigue to go with a medium to full-bodied, polished and deliciously quaffable feel on the palate. With air, it shows hints of its barrique upbringing, but I suspect these will be long gone by the time that sees the inside of a bottle.

The 2013 Vacqueyras les Hautes Vacquieres is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault that was raised mostly in stainless steel tanks, yet had 25% in French oak barrels. It offers up notes of plums, black raspberries, pepper and garrigue. This is a medium-bodied, fruit-filled and nicely concentrated Vacqueyras that will dish out loads of pleasure over the coming 5-7 years.

Another beautiful wine from this estate, the 2012 Vacqueyras Hautes Vacquières offers notes of strawberry, jammy raspberry, wild herbs and toasted spice. Ripe, textured and voluptuously styled, enjoy this medium to full-bodied, sexy Vacqueyras over the coming 5-6 years.