Atypically charming and approachable for Canon, the 2003 exhibits a deep plum/ruby color as well as a sweet bouquet of black cherries, ripe currants, and a hint of figs. With lush fruit on the attack, medium body, light to moderate tannin, and excellent texture, concentration, and purity, it should be at its finest between 2007-2018.

Tasted at the Chateau Canon vertical, the 2003 Canon has a tough act to follow in the form of the spellbinding 2005, and consequently the nose feels a little flat and fatigued. There is nothing offensive or indeed poor about the aromatics, it is just that they do not have the chutzpah, the animation of other vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with a touch of leather on the entry, plenty of soft red fruit but it lacks the framework, the structure to support it. There is still easy-drinking pleasure to be found on the 2003, but it is clearly hampered by that warm summer. Tasted October 2015.

Aromas of blackberry and lightly toasted oak with just an undertone of vanilla. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a lovely, silky texture. Best after 2010. 3,665 cases made. -JS