Château Durfort-Vivens

The history of Château Durfort-Vivens dates back to the 14th century when the Durfort de Duras family settled in Margaux (Bordeaux) and established the estate as hunting lodge. A few centuries later, the château was acquired by Robert-Adrien Labat de Vivens who became the sole owner and gave his name to the château in 1824. It has since been called Château Durfort-Vivens. The Lurton family bought the estate from the Giselet family in 1937.

For years, this 2nd Cru Classé Margaux property was perceived as underachieving. However, the estate has undergone a mini-renaissance since Lucien’s son Gonzague took over. Seeking the purest expression of their fruit, Gonzague introduced amphorae as an inevitable part of the aging of Château Durfort-Vivens wines. A remarkable initiative that grows year over year.  The estate’s amphorae cellar is now the largest in volume in the world!

With 55 hectares in viticulture, Durfort-Vivens’s vineyards (Cabernet Sauvignon 65%, Merlot 20%, Cabernet Franc 15%) lie on gravelly soils interspersed with limestone. Along with amphorae aging, vinification includes approximately 18 months’ wood ageing with around 30 to 50% being new French oak. The proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon in the final blend (around 80%) is the highest of any wine in the southern Médoc and contributes to the wine’s classic blackcurrant and cassis characteristics, as well as its notable tannins and structure. For that reason, Durfort-Vivens’s wines may be approached after 5 years or so in bottle but will continue improving for up to 10 years.

The estate has been dedicated to sustainable farming, having started its transition to organic farming in 2013 and certified biodynamic (DEMETER) in 2016. Aside from being certified organic and biodynamic, the property has also been HEV (High Environmental Value) and EMS (Environmental Management System) certified since 2019. All Durfort-Vivens wines have also been tested for “zero residue” since 2014.