L'Aventure "Optimus" Red Blend, 2018

California, (Paso Robles AVA)
56% Syrah, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot
14.9%

L'Aventure Winery, established in 1998 by French winemaker Stephan Asseo, is located in Paso Robles, California. After a successful winemaking career in Bordeaux, Asseo sought greater freedom in viticulture and vinification, leading him to Paso Robles, where he found a terroir reminiscent of the Rhône Valley.

TASTING NOTES: The spice and dark-chocolate character comes through on the nose. Full-bodied with ripe and creamy tannins and plenty of new wood. Vanilla and chocolate in the aftertaste.

 

FOOD PAIRINGS: I'd pair this with a pepper steak or Porterhouse, grilled beef sliders or slow braised lamb shanks with coriander, fennel and star anise.