Château Durfort-Vivens

Le Hameau Margaux Red Bordeaux Blend 2020

9.3

This is the “Le Hameau” bottling which was launched (along with “Les Plantes” and “Le Plateau”) in 2019. Le Hameau isolates a unique expression of their holdings, approximately 20 acres of vineyards planted to almost half Cabernet Sauvignon and half Merlot. What’s particularly conspicuous about Le Hameau is the élevage: most of it is aged in amphorae with the remaining, almost a third, on French Oak. The results are delicious.

Opened and decanted about 90min prior to service. The 2020 “Le Hameau” pours a deep purple/ruby color with an impenetrable core; medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of cassis, plum, Morello cherry, grilled fennel, savory notes of thyme and soft baking spice. On the palate, the wine is dry and medium+ across the board. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish lasts forever and it’s right here where you encounter the silky elegance of Margaux. Make no mistake, this is a powerful wine and yet, there is impeccable balance of fruit and non-fruits. Enjoy a bottle now to experience its exuberant youth but I expect a very long life; 2050+. — a month ago

Jan, Ceccherini and 13 others liked this

Château Lafite Rothschild

Pauillac Red Bordeaux Blend 1985

Delectable Wine

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9.3

The 1985 Lafite-Rothschild is only a modest success in the context of the vintage. Here, it is totally outclassed by the 1985 Las Cases. Light, slightly loose-knit red berry fruit on the nose is complemented by warm gravel and smoky aromas, though it lacks a bit of energy. The palate is nicely balanced, not powerful but focused, with adequate freshness. As mentioned in my previous tasting note, this has dispensed with some density in recent years, and if your expectations are modest, it remains enjoyable. Tasted at Hameau de Barbaron in Burgundy. (Neal Martin Vinous, December 2019)
— 5 years ago