In the world of wine, some people seem destined to cross borders.
Coming from one of Bordeaux’s great wine families, François Lurton has spent his life exploring vineyards, grape varieties and wine cultures across the globe. Long before the term became fashionable, he was already one of the first flying winemakers, crafting wines in different countries and learning from each terroir.
Throughout his career he has worked in France, Chile, Argentina, Portugal and Spain, always driven by a deep curiosity about how wine expresses place. In Spain he is behind some of the most respected wines from Rueda and Toro, and today his main project is Campo Elíseo, a winery that combines technical precision with a strong respect for the vineyard.
If there is one grape variety that has accompanied him almost like a signature, it is Sauvignon Blanc, which François has interpreted with remarkable success in several wine regions around the world.
On this occasion, François joins us at The Wine Studio to present a very special wine: Gran Araucano Cabernet Sauvignon, a Chilean red of depth and elegance that we have recently added to the school’s wine selection. The perfect excuse to sit down, pour a glass and share a Dialogue & Toast.
François, let’s begin with a fundamental question: would wine exist without the general public?
Yes… but very little. Without consumers, nothing would exist.
So how can we bring more people closer to wine?
By sharing convivial moments around wine. Offering wine to friends and family. Wine is first and foremost something that brings people together.
From your international experience, what are the essential characteristics of a successful wine?
A wine that is well made, well packaged and comes from a recognised origin.
How much do talent, vintage and experience influence a wine?
What really makes a wine is the quality of the grapes. That’s why great vintages — when the vine is not stressed — usually produce the best wines. Experience mainly becomes useful in difficult years.
In the market we see both super-premium wines and large-volume wines. Where is the balance?
Every market has its own needs.
Spain is the world’s largest exporter of bulk wine. What do you think about bulk wine?
Personally, I prefer selling grapes better.
A curious question: why aren’t more wines produced in magnum format?
Because there isn’t much demand outside the restaurant trade. In many countries with low wine consumption, this format is still unknown.
Today many winemakers enjoy strong media visibility. Do you think there are too many winemakers seeking recognition?
In the New World especially, some winemakers believe they are the only ones who know how to make great wines… and that can make them a little pretentious.
For someone starting to discover wine, what is the most important thing to know?
Be curious and taste everything. The charm of wine lies in its diversity.
Is there a book you would recommend?
The Taste of Wine by Émile Peynaud. And also reading magazines such as Wine Spectator or Decanter regularly.
Where do you usually buy wine?
Often at auctions, or by exchanging bottles with friends who are producers.
And what wines are you used to buy?
Mostly Champagne… and some great wines from around the world.
After a lifetime dedicated to wine, what reflection would you like to share with us?
Being a wine producer is certainly a hard and stressful profession, with little rest. But it also brings incredibly rewarding and fulfilling moments.
Glasses are filled and Gran Araucano Cabernet Sauvignon is already revealing its aromas on the table. François, what should we toast to today?
To the diversity of wine — and to continuing to discover it.
Cheers!
The Wine Studio Team
