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.
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.
Stephan'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.
One 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.
In 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.
