2005 L'Aventure Optimus
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Tasting notes
The least expensive red wine is the Optimus cuvee. The 2005 Optimus (51% Syrah, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot) barely qualifies as a Rhone Ranger, but it offers classic chocolate, cassis, espresso, and subtle wood notes along with a dense ruby/purple hue, gorgeous concentration, and plenty of spice, cedar, and a Pauillac-like complexity and richness. This serious effort is more French than Californian. It should drink well for 6-10 years. Transplanted Frenchman, Stephan Asseo (from St.-Emilion), has found a home as well as some great terroirs in the limestone soils of Paso Robles (all his vineyards are situated on the western side of Highway 101). Asseo continues to go from strength to strength, producing a fabulous portfolio of wines that makes L-Aventure one of the bright, shining reference points for the region. This is one of the California Central Coast superstars, and the wines are worth every cent. Tel. (805) 227-1588; Fax (805) 227-6988
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
(a blend of 51% syrah, 44% cabernet sauvignon and 5% petit verdot) Dark purple. Dark cherry and licorice on the nose, with subtle spice and underbrush qualities adding interest. Lush, creamy dark berry flavors possess display impressive weight but also good energy and focus, with slow-mounting tannins adding shape. Finishes with impressive sweet persistence and a gentle tannic bite. Owner/winemaker Stephan Asseo likes the touch of austerity that petit verdot adds to the blend.
About the producer
L’Aventure is one of the leading wine estates in Paso Robles, California. It was founded by Stephan Asseo and his wife Beatrice who left their native France in 1997 in search of a place to make wine without the restrictions of France’s appellation system.