2020 Ch Durfort-Vivens Half Bottle 375ml, Margaux

The 2020 Durfort-Vivens is an exotic, full-throttle wine. Heat and lack of rain between May and August yielded small berries with naturally concentrated juice. That comes through in the wine's ripe, luscious personality. Yields were 32 hectoliters per hectare, lower than normal. Small berries yielded a Durfort of tremendous richness. I imagine the 2020 will need quite a bit of time in bottle to be at its best. Today, it is quite the powerhouse. The 2020 is aging 67% new oak and 33% terracotta vats.

93-95 points Antonio Galloni vinous.com

What really impresses here is the tannin framework, which displays refinement and power at the same time. It’s full, yet very polished, racy and long. Loads of blackberries and walnuts with crushed grapes. 88% cabernet sauvignon and 12% merlot.

96-97 points James Suckling jamessuckling.com

This has some pretty big tannins, sinewy and muscular, with the floral side of Cabernet on full display. Majors on savoury fruits, tobacco leaf and rosemary spices. A wine that shows a classically balanced Margaux, not an exuberant one. Takes its time, and as it opens up a sweeter raspberry puree appears showing texture and depth with slate minerality on the finish. This is serious and a little closed right now. 30% aged in amphoras (jarres) and 70% in new oak for 18 months ageing. Drinking Window 2028 - 2042

94 points Jane Anson decanter.com