Bordeaux Area Vineyards - Margaux - Chateau Durfort-Vivens
14th century wine maker
Chateau Durfort-Vivens is a historic wine estate located in the Margaux appellation of the Bordeaux region, celebrated for its distinctive wines that embody the elegance and complexity associated with this prestigious area. The chateau's history is deep-rooted, with its vineyard lands acknowledged as early as the 14th century. The Durfort de Duras family, a noble lineage, originally established the estate, and it was through marriage that the property later became connected to the Vivens family, hence the hyphenated name that the chateau carries today.
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Significantly, Chateau Durfort-Vivens was classified as a Troisième Cru (Third Growth) in the landmark Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. This historic classification, which came into being at the request of Emperor Napoleon III for the Paris Exposition of that year, remains a testament to the quality and reputation of the estate's wines. It has historically served as a marker of the chateau's stature within the hierarchy of Bordeaux wines.
The estate's vineyards are planted predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon, the lead grape variety that thrives in the gravelly soils typical of the Margaux terroir. These soils, which offer excellent drainage and reflect sunlight to aid grape ripening, are instrumental in creating the conditions for the Cabernet Sauvignon to express its full potential. Merlot and a small amount of Cabernet Franc are also grown, contributing to the depth and complexity of the chateau's wine blends.
Chateau Durfort-Vivens has embraced organic viticulture, with a dedication to environmental sustainability evident in their practices. The estate's approach to winemaking is characterized by the integration of traditional methods with modern techniques, ensuring that each vintage reflects the nuances of the terroir and the particularities of the year.
The character of Chateau Durfort-Vivens' wine is quintessentially Margaux, with an aromatic profile that typically includes ripe dark fruits, floral notes such as violet, and a delicate minerality. The wines are known for their silky texture and finesse, with a structure that supports aging potential. These wines often present a balance between immediate charm and the capacity to develop increased sophistication and complexity over time in the bottle.
Throughout its history, Chateau Durfort-Vivens has been guided by a commitment to producing wines that are not only reflective of their noble heritage but also resonate with contemporary palates. This commitment has placed them among the notable chateaux of Margaux, with a legacy that continues to evolve while respecting the timeless traditions of Bordeaux winemaking.