One of the greatest interpreters of Saint-Emilion

He leaves us at the age of 86 an oenologist whose passion and dedication were examples to so many. Originally from Minnesota, he trained at the Blake School in Minneapolis and Yale University in 1959 followed by an MBA at the Stanford Graduate School of Business in 1962. He has received many awards such as the Ernest C. Arbuckle Award in 2006 and the Yale Medal in 2009.

Together with his wife Denise, he fell in love with the lands of Saint-Émilion in 2004, when he bought Château Fonplégade (Grand Cru Classé). His experience led him to the total renovation of this prestigious estate, including the restoration of the East Tower, burnt down during the Second World War. And to the acquisition of Château L’Enclos (Pomerol). Their love for culture and wine, especially Cabernet Sauvignon, makes them look overseas. In California, they create ADAMVS on the slopes of Howell. The quest for excellence drives them to convert their vineyards to organic and biodynamic farming.

©ChâteauFonplégade

A man with a passion for music and art, to be passed on to future generations

Stephen’s legacy goes far beyond his achievements in the world of wine. A strong supporter of the arts, he served on the Advisory Council of the Yale School of Music and was a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). His love for music and the arts was matched only by his dedication to his craft.

Committed but silent philanthropists, Stephen and Denise Adams supported Yale University and the Yale School of Music, the Stanford Graduate School of Business, World Vision and other organizations to benefit arts, education and humanitarian causes. Their dedication to the advancement of neuroscience research and care continues in partnership with Yale New Haven Hospital, through the construction and development of the hospital complex known as the Adams Neurosciences Center, and with Yale University, through the development of the Stephen and Denise Adams Center for Parkinson’s. Stephen and Denise were a committed and generous couple: after many years, their anonymous donation to the Yale School of Music turned out to be the largest donation the school had ever received.

According to her wishes, the funeral was private. Instead of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations: Adams Neurosciences Center Building Fund