Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens 2018 | Margaux, Bordeaux

Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens 2018 is an elegant and beautifully balanced red Bordeaux from the prestigious Margaux appellation. Produced by Château Durfort-Vivens, a Second Growth estate classified in the historic 1855 Classification, this is a superb introduction to the refined style of one of Bordeaux's great properties.

Made from 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot, the 2018 vintage combines ripe black fruit with the perfume, freshness and fine tannins for which Margaux is renowned.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby in colour with inviting aromas of ripe black cherry, blackcurrant and dark berries, accompanied by subtle floral character and spicy hints of juniper.

The palate is fresh, supple and beautifully balanced, with juicy black fruit supported by fine, polished tannins. There is excellent freshness through the middle of the wine, leading to a long, elegant and refined finish.

About Château Durfort-Vivens

Château Durfort-Vivens is one of the historic estates of Margaux and was ranked as a Deuxième Cru – Second Growth – in the 1855 Classification.

Under the ownership of Gonzague Lurton, the estate has become particularly recognised for its commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture. The vineyards have been farmed biodynamically since the 2016 vintage, with the fruit harvested by hand.

Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens offers a more approachable expression of the estate and provides an excellent way to experience the character and pedigree of a classified-growth Margaux.

2018 Vintage

The 2018 vintage produced a ripe and generous expression of Bordeaux while retaining the structure and freshness required for balance. In Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens, this gives plenty of ripe Cabernet fruit alongside the elegance and perfume associated with Margaux.

Winemaking

The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are sourced from biodynamically farmed vineyards and fermented in small concrete vats, with individual vineyard plots vinified separately.

The wine is matured for approximately 16 months in 225-litre Bordeaux barrels, with around 20% first-fill barrels and 80% pre-seasoned oak. This approach adds complexity and structure without overwhelming the fruit.

Food Pairing

A classic Margaux like Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens works particularly well with:

• Roast beef or beef fillet
• Grilled steak
• Roast lamb
• Duck breast
• Venison and game
• Charcuterie
• Mushroom dishes
• Mature and semi-hard cheeses

Serve at around 16–18°C. Decanting for around 30–60 minutes before serving will allow the fruit and aromatic character to open further.

Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens 2018 Details

• Producer: Château Durfort-Vivens
• Wine: Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens
• Vintage: 2018
• Country: France
• Region: Bordeaux
• Appellation: Margaux
• Grape Varieties: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot
• ABV: 13.5%
• Bottle Size: 75cl
• Closure: Natural Cork
• Farming: Biodynamic
• Suitable for: Vegans and Vegetarians

Buy Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens 2018 Online

Buy Le Relais de Durfort-Vivens 2018 Margaux online from The Strong Water Co., independent wine and whisky merchants in Royal Deeside, Scotland.

An excellent choice for Bordeaux lovers looking for the elegance of Margaux and the pedigree of a classified-growth château without stepping up to the price of the estate's Grand Vin.

ABV STRENGTH 13.5

BOTTLE SIZE 75cl

COUNTRY France

GRAPE Cabernet Sauvignon- 75% Merlot - 25%

REGION Bordeaux

VINTAGE 2018