2003 Roc de Cambes

Mitjavile: 'Most fascinating vintage. Canicule. Some vineyards suffered and fruit was unripe and not much juice. High polyphenol. Had to harvest late. Great exposure but clay limestone soils are cold and have reserves of water. Atlantic saves us by the Gulf Stream.' Deep browning garnet. Amazing aromas – both meaty and eucalyptus from the ripest of fruit but without raisining or dried-fruit flavours. And a touch of mint. Firm and meaty on the palate too though the tannins are so unlike many 2003s, so supple for the vintage and although the acidity is low it is fresh from the texture. A big chewy wine. (JH)

Good bright red. Exotic aromas of cherry and dried rose, with a slightly roasted quality. Rich, sweet and lush; fat with jammy fruit but firmed by an edge of acidity. Very ripe and sweet but with sufficient structure to maintain its shape.