The 2016 Durfort Vivens, which I tasted at a négoçiant tasting, is a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot, the vineyard now biodynamically farmed and Demeter approved. I have criticized this Margaux on previous occasions due to lack of ripeness, but certainly the nose does not display any of that. This 2016 comes armed with attractive blackberry, bilberry and sous-bois aromas that gradually unfurl in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with an insistent grip on the entry. The tannins feel quite bold for Durfort-Vivens, with plenty of sappy black fruit. I appreciate the acidic drive of this Margaux and the finish is energetic, full of tension and leaves a lovely, almost brine-like aftertaste. This is one of the best wines from Gonzalgue Lurton that I have tasted in recent years. 90-92 points

Now biodynamically certified by Demeter as of the 2016 vintage, this has a full 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. This was a great year for Cabernet, certainly as you move further up the Médoc, and it is flexing its muscles here. I just love this, it has a true sense of forward motion but it is also intense, complex and layered. Extremely clear liquorice and tight black spice, with waves of soft floral, almost violet, notes. Sometimes a forgotten estate in Margaux, as far as any 1855 property can be forgotten, but we are going to see the plaudits increase over the next few years, and this is sounding the starting gun. 94 points

Cabernet Sauvignon plays the leading role in the 2016 Durfort-Vivens. Inky, deep and fleshy, the 2016 exudes considerable aromatic and flavor intensity. Grilled herbs, leather, tobacco, smoke and licorice infuse a core of super-ripe dark Cabernet fruit. The tannins are present, but they are nicely balanced by the luxuriousness of the fruit. This is an especially ripe, almost exotic, style for Margaux, but it works. In 2016 Durfort-Vivens has the highest amount of Cabernet Sauvignon ever in the wine. 90-93 points