92 Josh Raynolds - Vinous Media

"Inky ruby. Explosively perfumed nose offers a sexy bouquet of smoky dark berries, cherry preserves, fruitcake, olive and incense. Fleshy and youthfully bitter, offering deep cassis and dark cherry flavors that are framed by lightly chewy tannins and gain sweetness with air. The spicy notes echo on the sappy, very long finish. This is already delicious but has the concentration to reward patience." -92 points- Josh Raynolds- International Wine Cellar

"Lastly, a new 300-case offering marketed under a different label, the 2006 Pharaohmoans is a blend of 96% Syrah and 4% Grenache. It offers plenty of espresso roast, blackberry liqueur, licorice, smoke, and a hint of barbecue spices in a full-bodied, powerful style. More tannic, structured, and backward than some of its siblings, it is meant for long-term cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2018+. 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." -90+ Points Robert Parker

"This very dry wine is dominated by its hard tannins, and comes across as a bit rigid and austere, especially by California standards. Yet it’s very finely structured, with a keen edge of black pepper to the currant and blackberry flavors buried way beneath. Give it through 2009, but if you must drink now, decant." -90 Points Wine Enthusiast

WINE:
"He [Stephan Asseo] planted his Syrah vineyards on primarily west facing slopes. Stephan selected rootstock that he felt would be particularly suited to the soil and climate, and also planted a high density of plants per acre to further stress the vines and maximize the flavors. In addition, yields are kept low through irrigation and pruning techniques, resulting in a maximum harvest of only about two tons to the acre."

"Stephan believes that the characteristics of the grapes should come through rather than that of the barrel. Accordingly, he uses new French oak barrels as they can be toasted more softly than other types of wood. Asseo also uses small tanks during his winemaking process to keep his vineyard lots separate until they are ready for blending." -Winery

WINEMAKER:
"Our winemaker Stephan Asseo began his career as a winemaker and consultant in France's famed Bordeaux region. Stephan was looking for a new challenge where he would have the ability to experiment, try new ideas, and grow different varietals. He fell in love with Paso during a visit to California. In 1997, he purchased 127 acres, and founded L'Aventure Winery." -Winery