The 2006 Cote a Cote Proprietary Red is a blend of 40% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache, and 30% Syrah. Another superstar in the L-Aventure portfolio, it possesses an inky/purple color along with a sumptuous, sweet bouquet of roasted meats, blackberry liqueur, creme de cassis, licorice, and chocolate. Dense and full-bodied with fabulous intensity, opulence, and flesh, but no hard edges, it will provide immense pleasure over the next decade. 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

Big, ripe and intense. Firm and muscular, with complex cedar, blackberry and wild berry fruit that's well-proportioned, ending with good length and a dash of heat. Mourvedre, Grenache and Syrah. Drink now through 2014. 800 cases made. -JL