Château Durfort-Vivens, Margaux 2ème Cru Classé 2016

PRODUCER
Château Durfort-Vivens owes its name to the Durfort de Duras, a powerful family in the South West of France that came to Margaux in the 14th century. In 1824, the Viscount of Vivens' name was added to that of Durfort. The 1855 classification ranked Durfort- Vivens as a Second Cru Classé. Vivens, the second wine, was first produced in 2004 predominantly coming from younger vines and selected parcels.

VINEYARDS
Located in the communes of Margaux, Cantenac and Soussans, the Durfort-Vivens' vines are planted on hilltops made up of deep, poor gravel. This magnificent terroir enables an early optimal ripening of the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, allowing a full expression of the finesse and silkiness of the tannins, resulting in the freshness and elegance characteristic of a great Margaux. All vineyard work is done by hand at the beginning of the vegetative cycle. Pruning is adapted to the vigour of the vine, with the removal of excess buds, shoots and leaves. Gonzague Lurton, the current head of the estate, has introduced organic farming to the vineyard.

VINTAGE
The 2013 ripening conditions were good and generally normal for Margaux. A marked hot period at the end of August and early September accelerated ripening, meaning harvest was started earlier than usual to preserve the fruit characteristics.

VINIFICATION
Château Durfort-Vivens 2013 was aged in oak barrels for 18 months with 40-45% of the wine in new barrels. Regular racking and fining with natural egg whites accompanied this stabilisation period for the wine before bottling.

TASTING NOTES
This vintage offers a very subtle expression of finesse, elegance, freshness of fruit and a harmonious finish. On the nose, there are intense aromas of redcurrants, blueberries, lilac, violet and mineral notes. On the palate, there are hints of spice and light tobacco with smooth, silky tannins. It is a well-balanced and elegant wine, with a long and lingering finish.

Grape Varieties
82% Cabernet Sauvignon 17% Merlot
1% Cabernet Franc

Natural Cork 12.5% 75cl