The 2012 Gran Lurton Corte Fruilano has an attractive, vanilla and almond-scented nose with well-integrated oak. The palate is balanced on the entry, but it seems rather hollow towards the laconic finish. It needs to have more presence. Drink now. Considering that Bordeaux has been my second home over the previous 15 years, I suspect that I have shaken hands with most members of the Lurton family at one time or another. The dynasty branched into Argentina back in 1992, initially in conjunction with the Catena family, then building their own bodega four years later. I have to say that I found their wines acceptable, but not reaching the level I had hopes, in particular for their premium Chacayes wines that were not as complex or to be frank, as interesting as I would expect given the price tag.Importer: Ex Cellars Wine, Solvang, CA; tel. (805) 686-9153; and Roberson Fine Wine (UK)

At first you might think it’s too oaky, because the nose is heavily influenced by barrel toast and vanilla. But as it unfolds complexity rises up, as do melon and peach scents. Feels plump and oily, with powdery peach flavors. Finishes honeyed and creamy, with good acidity. Sauvignon Vert with Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Torrontes.——M.S.(3/1/2012)—— 88

Maybe this wine is already past its prime, but given that we aren’t that familiar gauging barrel-aged blends of Sauvignon Vert, Pinot Gris, Chard and Torrontes, all we can say is that it comes across odd, resiny and heavy. Barrel notes and mustard flavors aren’t all that great, and overall it’s chunky, soft and tastes strange.——M.S.(8/1/2010)—— 82