The 2015 Durfort Vivens has a predictably leafier and more herbaceous bouquet than its Margaux peers, though not unattractive with a slight steely edge. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm, grainy tannin in the mouth. I appreciate the balance here and compared to recent vintages, there is clearly more fruit concentration on the finish, a pleasant salinity on the aftertaste. For those that prefer a leaner style of Claret, this comes recommended, and as I have seen in the past, it tends to put on weight by the time it is in bottle.

Very dark. Lifted, very wild sort of nose with lots going on there. Round and mentholated. Interesting wine!
Drink 2023-2037

90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot. Aged 18 months in barrel (60% new oak). Garnet hue. Ripe and round, the generosity signalling a solar year. Gourmand fruit on the palate. Plush and full but fresh at the same time. Bigger volume with firm, forceful tannins. Powerful but contained. Large but balanced. Considerable potential for ageing. (JL)