Without a leader, precise source of red (6)

I believe the answer is:

cerise

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'red' is the definition.
(I know this)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for cerise that I've seen before include "Light purplish red" , "'E cries at the colour red" , "EEC, sir, is red" , "Deep red colour" , "Light clear red" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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