The 2017 Vacqueyras Vieux Clocher offers an interesting combination of dark, chocolaty overtones with bright, tangy raspberries. There's a bit of garrigue on the nose, a bit of carbon dioxide still present in the wine and a tart, lingering finish.

The 2016 Vacqueyras Vieux Clocher is what the family refers to as the "classic" Vacqueyras. Recently bottled, the blend of 70% Grenache, with the remainder split between Syrah and Mourvèdre, was still showing well, offering up raspberry fruit that shades into chocolate on the long, slightly warm finish. This medium to full-bodied wine isn't for long cellaring, but is already approachable.

Another terrific wine is the 2015 Vacqueyras Vieux Clocher, which checks in as 70% Grenache, 25% Syrah and 5% Cinsault, aged in foudre. It’s a more black fruit-driven wine that has classic notes of ground herbs, chocolate and earth in a fresh, lively, beautifully balanced style. This is a classic, straight up delicious 2015 that will see its 10th birthday in fine form. It should be readily available in the market as well.

The 2014 Vacqueyras Vieux Clocher is another medium-bodied, simple, yet enjoyable effort that offers plenty of garrigue, spice and berry fruits. It, too, is a charming, early drinker.