Vivens de Durfort-Vivens

About this wine

Vivens de Durfort-Vivens is the second wine of Château Durfort-Vivens, a prestigious Second Grand Cru Classé (1855) in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. Crafted primarily from younger vines on the estate's 65-hectare biodynamically farmed vineyard — certified organic and Demeter biodynamic since 2016 — this cuvée delivers a more approachable, fruit-forward expression of the same Margaux terroir that defines the Grand Vin. Dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, it exhibits refined tannins, vivid dark berry and violet aromatics, and the characteristic silky elegance of the appellation. Produced through the 2018 vintage, it was subsequently replaced by the Parcelles de Durfort-Vivens single-vineyard series, making available bottles increasingly sought after.

Sommelier's Note

"For under ¥9,000, this is one of the most genuine expressions of Margaux terroir you can find — biodynamic precision, silky tannins, and that unmistakable violet-tinged elegance in every glass."

Food Pairings

Pairs beautifully with roasted rack of lamb, grilled beef tenderloin, braised duck breast, and aged hard cheeses such as Comté or Pecorino. The wine's refined tannin structure and dark fruit profile also complement earthy mushroom dishes, truffle-laced risotto, and game birds. At the table, it shines alongside slow-roasted beef with herbed jus.

When to drink it

Perfect for intimate dinner parties, milestone anniversaries, or as a sophisticated gift for Bordeaux enthusiasts. It is also an outstanding choice for business dinners where an impressive yet accessible Margaux label is desired.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc

Style

Red

Price Range

$40–65 per bottle (750ml), depending on vintage and market. 2015 and 2016 vintages command premiums given the estates' quality surge.

Terroir & Winemaking

Sourced principally from younger vines on the Durfort-Vivens estate in Margaux, Cantenac, Soussans, and Arsac. The estate's vineyard is planted with approximately 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc on deep gravel and limestone soils. Fermentation is conducted in temperature-controlled stainless steel or concrete vats with parcel-by-parcel vinification to preserve terroir expression. Aging takes place in French oak barrels (a portion of new oak, typically 30–50% depending on vintage) for approximately 12–14 months. From the 2017 vintage onward, the estate began incorporating clay terracotta amphorae in the maturation process. Annual production of the second wine was discontinued after the 2018 vintage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Vivens de Durfort-Vivens taste like?

Expect ripe blackcurrant, dark cherry, violet, and a hint of graphite, underpinned by silky, well-integrated tannins and a fresh, mineral finish characteristic of the Margaux appellation.

Is this wine still being produced?

No. Vivens de Durfort-Vivens was discontinued after the 2018 vintage. From 2019, Château Durfort-Vivens replaced it with three single-vineyard cuvées called Les Parcelles de Durfort-Vivens (Les Plantes, Le Plateau, Le Hameau).

When is the best time to drink it?

It is approachable from around 3–4 years after harvest and will continue to develop gracefully for 8–10 years in a good vintage such as 2015, 2016, or 2018.

How does it differ from the Grand Vin?

The Grand Vin sources fruit from the oldest, best-situated parcels and receives extended aging in a higher proportion of new oak. Vivens uses younger vines and has a shorter élevage, making it more accessible and fruit-forward while sharing the same biodynamic terroir.

Is the estate really biodynamic?

Yes. Château Durfort-Vivens became fully biodynamic in 2013 and earned dual organic and Demeter biodynamic certification in 2016 — the first Margaux Grand Cru Classé to achieve this distinction.