Delicious notes of black olives, unsmoked cigar tobacco, black currants and black cherries jump from the glass of this plump, aromatic, silky, medium to full-bodied Margaux. One of the finest Durfort Vivens yet produced, it is filled with purity and elegance. Enjoy it over the next 15-20 years. Drink: 2012 - 2032
-Wine Advocate #199 Feb 2012

(87-89+)
Normally the proprietor at this estate refuses to let me taste, so I was surprised when he did so this year. The 2009 Durfort Vivens is an attractive, soft, velvety-textured wine revealing a hint of tapenade intermixed with black currant and blackberry fruit. Medium-bodied and elegant with the silkiness and precision that make this vintage so alluring, it should drink well for 15-20 years. (Tasted once.) Drink: 2010 - 2030
-Wine Advocate #188 Apr 2010

Tasted at a negociant. This is a little tight on the nose, but I like the purity and the definition here and unlike in recent years there is no sign of any under-ripeness (an nor should there be you may argue.) Blackberry, plum, cedar and a touch of graphite. The palate is medium-bodied, plump on the entry and then obvious over-maturity on the finish that lacks freshness. This is so disappointing after a pleasurable nose. Tasted March 2010.

73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc. Aged 18 months in barrel (50% new oak). Relatively youthful ruby-garnet hue. Aromatically pleasant with a bouquet of blackcurrant and blueberry. Ripe with some sweetness and added density on the mid palate. Tannins supple and round. Length on the finish and, at last, some Margaux typicality and elegance. (JL)

[74CS/21M/5CF] Closed but very ripe to smell; elegantly balanced in Gonzague Lurton's very slightly austere style: crisp, finely tannic, closed grained, complex and linear; clear Margaux proportions, not 'big' that is, but fine, long in the mouth, very minerally behind the delicate, transparent fruit; very ripe but not sweet or thick; subtle, long, fine textured without being silky or unctuous, and very aromatic to finish. Harmonious, even, complete Durfort, a combination of gentle power and restraint. Best wine since Gonzague took over nearly 20 years ago. 2017-30