In the southern Medoc, 2003 was more of a hit-or-miss vintage than in St.-Julien, Pauillac or St.-Estephe. Palmer's 2003 exhibits sweet licorice, mulberry and black cherry notes along with notions of roasted herbs and rustic tannins. It does not possess the velvety, refined tannins of great vintages of Palmer over the last ten or so years. Nevertheless, it is still alive and is capable of lasting another 5-7 years. Drink 2014-2021
Blackberry, licorice and tar follow through to a full-bodied palate, with firm, silky tannins and a medium berry and vanilla aftertaste. Juicy wine. Best after 2008. 6,000 cases made.
Fine, sweet, scented nose, classy and persistent; medium full, fairly concentrated, fresh acidity and firm tannin; quite dense and masculine for Palmer (68% Cabernet Sauvignon this year). Ripe rather than super ripe with long, close grained, compact, complex red and black fruit flavours, excellent length. Very good, very pure, in a slightly severe mould.
This estate’s grand vin and second wine have both benefited immensely from stricter selections. The 2003 vintage’s heat and drought stressed this vineyard’s light soils, resulting in an atypical Palmer. The 2003 Palmer possesses a dark ruby/purple color, high, austere tannins, less flesh and mid-palate than usual, medium body, and a flowery black currant-scented bouquet. It lacks the extra dimension required aromatically, texturally, and flavor-wise to achieve their normal quality level. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020.
The 2003 Palmer exhibits an evolved style along with a deep ruby/purple-tinged color, sexy, complex aromatics, and medium body. While it lacks the great depth this estate achieved in the last three vintages, it should be delicious upon release, and age for 15+ years. A blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 12% Petit Verdot and made from extremely low yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare, it is a wine of undeniable finesse, fruit, and elegance. Although it does not possess the weight and power of Palmer’s finest vintages, if its mid-palate fills out a bit, it will be an outstanding effort. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2018.
