Winemaker Spotlight: Francois Lurton, Bodega Piedra Negra
Winemaker Spotlight: Francois Lurton, Bodega Piedra Negra
Mendoza wines with Bordeaux know-how
Francois Lurton says he was the first to plant pinot gris in Argentina. He’s now the biggest producer of it in that country, making 48 cases a year. But it’s not his only standout wine. At Bodega Piedra Negra in Mendoza, Lurton--who comes from a long line of Bordeaux vintners--makes a series of malbecs that can hold their own against any of his family’s French wines.
“There is a unique variation between vintages in Argentina, which is not so in Chile,” Lurton said during a recent visit to New York City. Each malbec Lurton produces has its own personality, but, as a group, they are all elegant, refined, and—most interestingly—well-priced for the quality.
BODEGA PIEDRA NEGRA 2008 Malbec Reserva (Mendoza, Argentina) $11 Food brings out the flavor in this dark red, which pairs well with meaty pasta dishes or cheese.
BODEGA PIEDRA NEGRA 2008 Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) $26 This wine drinks like a Bordeaux, it’s structured and could be served with rich red meat or duck.
BODEGA PIEDRA NEGRA Pinot Gris 2012 (Mendoza, Argentina) $11 Fruity, and light, this is the perfect wine to open and drink while you’re cooking dinner.
What’s your favorite malbec? Tell us below!
Tags: Francois Lurton, Mendoza, Bordeaux, Argentina, Malbec
