STEPHEN ADAMS  –  PROPRIETOR

A seasoned vintner, with decades of experience, Stephen Adams purchased his first vineyard in California’s Dry Creek Valley in 1995. Since then, Stephen’s wine interests have expanded to almost every facet of the wine industry, and include ADAMVS, an acclaimed winery on the slopes of Napa Valley’s Howell Mountain, Pomerol’s renowned Château L’Enclos and the Grand Cru Classé property of Château Fonplégade.

Though American born, Stephen and his wife, Denise, have long shared a deep affinity for art and culture of France. The Adamses were married in Dordogne, and honeymooned in Saint-Emilion, where they immersed themselves in the region and its wines. Their fascination with the great wines of France, ultimately lead them to the vine rows of Bordeaux, where the couple acquired Château L’Enclos and Château Fonplégade. As with everything he does, Stephen is dedicated to achieving the highest standards of excellence for Château Fonplégade. To realize the legendary site’s full potential, Stephen worked with Denise to spearhead the property’s unprecedented renewal. In addition to taking an active role in all big-picture and business decisions, Stephen takes a particular interest in sales, marketing and wine club development. He also works with the team to evaluate all the potential blends for Château Fonplégade, with an eye towards underscoring the elegant purity of the estate’s terroir.

“Denise and I approach the 150-year history of Château Fonplégade with respect and humility. Château Fonplégade was here long before we were, and it will be here long after we are gone. We see the time we have as stewards of this land as a responsibility and a privilege. While we are very proud of what we have accomplished over the past decade, our legacy as vintners will ultimately be judged 20, 30, or 40 years from now. This legacy will be reflected in the vitality of the land, and the quality of our wines as they age in the decades ahead.”

Stephen earned a degree in American studies from Yale University, before receiving an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Though he has explored many opportunities in business and finance, Stephen’s passion for wine, music and the arts have always played an important role in his life and endeavors. An avid piano player, he is proud to serve on the Yale School of Music’s advisory board. He was also a past member of YPO, the Young President’s Organization, which unites top business leaders in more than 100 countries.