Château Durfort-Vivens 2. Cru Classé Margaux 2016 i trækasse

Christer Byklum

Tastingbook.com

Decanter

Now biodynamically certified by Demeter as of the 2016 vintage, this has a full 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. This was a great year for Cabernet, certainly as you move further up the Médoc, and it is flexing its muscles here. I just love this, it has a true sense of forward motion but it is also intense, complex and layered. Extremely clear liquorice and tight black spice, with waves of soft floral, almost violet, notes. Sometimes a forgotten estate in Margaux, as far as any 1855 property can be forgotten, but we are going to see the plaudits increase over the next few years, and this is sounding the starting gun.

Vinous

The 2016 Durfort-Vivens is gorgeous. Cabernet Sauvignon aromatics and structure play off the natural intensity of the year beautifully. Blackberry, grilled herbs, licorice, leather and crème de cassis are all vividly sketched in this layered, expressive Margaux. Readers should expect a dark, exotic Margaux that stands a bit apart from the norm for the appellation.

Wine Enthusiast

Now certified biodynamic, this estate is on a roll. This vintage is very fine, rich and well structured. The dry core is contrasted by black fruit flavors. It is going to be generous and concentrated; there is long-term aging potential here.

James Suckling

This is really superb with beautiful density and ripe tannin texture. Full body and a round and polished texture. Rich and impressive but all in class. Made from biodynamic grapes. Almost all Cabernet Sauvignon.

Bettane & Desseauve

90% Cabernet Sauvignon, a biodynamic certification crowning years of reconversion, and a great success! Rare and moving floral nose, straight, intense body, slightly less refined tannins than Brane but perfectly integrated, good length. It will obviously be necessary to know how to respect the strength but also the fragility (small oxidative tendency) when bottling.