2008 Durfort Vivens
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2008 Durfort-Vivens has an attractive cedar-scented nose with touches of melted tar. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and fine acidity. However, overall, it comes across as a little one-dimensional and monotonous. It's a little austere on the finish. I hoped it would improve in my glass, yet it instead seems to fade and is disappointing overall. Tasted at the Durfort-Vivens dinner at Portland restaurant.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc. Aged 18 months in barrel (45% new oak). Garnet hue with a translucent rim. Mint and pepper notes. Lots of freshness, if on the leafy, green side. Some sweetness to the palate, the flavour blackcurrant bud. Tannins slightly dry on the finish. Phenolic ripeness questionable but the green acidity does lend freshness. (JL)
Tasted blind. Dark blackish ruby. Something slightly sweet on the nose and then vigorous fruit, fruit-cake flavour. Light dustiness on the end. Falls away a bit suddenly. But there is some energy here. (JR)