Terroir
The site for the vineyard was selected after an extensive study of the area that matched Stephan's experience as a vigneron. He immediately favored the west side of Paso Robles for its sloping hills and authentic terroir. The 127-acre property he chose is comprised of multiple hills of various elevations, complex soils, and excellent water drainage. He finds the aspects of this terroir to be fundamental in obtaining the high quality fruit necessary to create the wines he has envisioned for L'Aventure.
Viticulture
The choice of rootstock was made to take full advantage of the terroir. Only those with a long, slow maturation, and a deep root system were selected. For the same reason, planting was done with a very high density of more than 2,000 plants per acre. The irrigation system was designed specifically with the ability to irrigate each row separately. This allows an optimum balance between the amount of water, the sun exposure, and the soil.
Winery + Caves
The winery reflects our commitment to excellence. All the equipment is a perfect blend of modern practices and tradition. In 2016, we finally completed a long but exciting project... underground caves. By having caves, we no longer need to use outside energy (ie: air conditioning) to keep the temperature cool and the humidity just right. All aging takes place in the caves, primarily in French oak barrels.
THE STORY
how it started Following his education at L'Ecole Oenologique de Macon, Burgundy, France, Stephan established Domaine de Courteillac in Bordeaux in 1982. Over the next 15 years, Stephan developed into an artisan winemaker of fastidious craftsmanship and gained a reputation as a maverick vigneron. However, his true desire was to be more innovative than AOC law would allow.
how it started Following his education at L'Ecole Oenologique de Macon, Burgundy, France, Stephan established Domaine de Courteillac in Bordeaux in 1982. Over the next 15 years, Stephan developed into an artisan winemaker of fastidious craftsmanship and gained a reputation as a maverick vigneron. However, his true desire was to be more innovative than AOC law would allow.
the adventure begins Stephan wanted to expand his expertise while gaining more freedom in viticulture and vinification. In 1998, the Asseo family left Bordeaux and searched for over a year within the world's great wine regions, ranging from South Africa to Lebanon, Argentina to Napa, but they fell in love with the unique terroir of west side Paso Robles and L'Aventure was born.
the adventure begins Stephan wanted to expand his expertise while gaining more freedom in viticulture and vinification. In 1998, the Asseo family left Bordeaux and searched for over a year within the world's great wine regions, ranging from South Africa to Lebanon, Argentina to Napa, but they fell in love with the unique terroir of west side Paso Robles and L'Aventure was born.
the spirit of l'aventureStephan's philosophy of winemaking stems from a production driven mentality. Our wines reflect the vintage and terroir of Paso Robles. Optimus and Estate Cuvée are both wines that are Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot blends. In these wines, as well as in our Rhône blend Côte à Côte (among others), the blending of premium varieties increases the authenticity, complexity, and balance of the wines.
the spirit of l'aventureStephan's philosophy of winemaking stems from a production driven mentality. Our wines reflect the vintage and terroir of Paso Robles. Optimus and Estate Cuvée are both wines that are Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot blends. In these wines, as well as in our Rhône blend Côte à Côte (among others), the blending of premium varieties increases the authenticity, complexity, and balance of the wines.
keeping it in the familyOne of our core values at L'Aventure is family. In 2013, much to the delight of her parents, Chloé decided to join the family business. Since then, her role has expanded into managing the entire operation. The family dynamic does not end with the Asseos, as the true meaning of family extends not only to our partners, the Thiénot family, but also to our amazing team here at L'Aventure.
keeping it in the familyOne of our core values at L'Aventure is family. In 2013, much to the delight of her parents, Chloé decided to join the family business. Since then, her role has expanded into managing the entire operation. The family dynamic does not end with the Asseos, as the true meaning of family extends not only to our partners, the Thiénot family, but also to our amazing team here at L'Aventure.
25 years....and many more to comeIn July of 2023, L'Aventure celebrated its 25th anniversary. This milestone comes with many accomplishments including becoming 100% estate produced, completing the construction of our new tasting room and caves, partnering with the Thiénot family, acquiring a new vineyard, and doing more collaborative wine projects. Our focus on quality continues as we evolve with innovative ideas while still respecting our roots.
