The 2023 Durfort-Vivens is more impressive in bottle than it was as a young barrel sample. Dark and enveloping, the 2023 possesses superb depth and presence from start to finish. Blackberry, licorice, mocha and dried herbs all build in a positively stellar Grand Vin. There's so much to look forward to. Aging was 18 months, 70% in French oak and 30% in amphora.

Aromas of blueberries, blackberries, black currants, lead pencil and flint, with some tar. Medium-bodied, showing round, fine tannins that deliver a creamy texture and a long, succulent finish. Great purity of fruit. Lightly chewy at the end. A blend of 92% cabernet sauvignon and 8% merlot. Needs three or four years to come around. Drink or hold. December 2025

Touch of reduction on first nose, a ton of energy, power, coiled mint, eucalyptus, cloves, pomegranate, liquorice, crayon and squid ink, so much flavour and flesh and expansion, exceptionally good. Harvest September 11 to October 4, 35hl/h yield, 3.66ph, 66% new oak, 33% amphoras for ageing. I said this was right up there with the best of Margaux during my En Primeur tastings, and that translates to a single point upscore at this point. Inside Bordeaux December 2025

92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot. 35 hl/ha. Cask sample. Deep purple hue. Expressive fruit with just a hint of toasted oak. Firm structure with polished tannins but not quite the finesse of 2022. (JL)