Region: Napa Valley, California

Vintage: 2021

Composition: 100% Chardonnay

History: Undeniably a rising superstar in California, Frenchman Benoit Touquette makes a host of Napa Valley wines, all displaying impeccable winemaking and balanced, layered profiles. Benoit was born in Lyon, France, and obtained his education at the University of Bordeaux. He worked at numerous French wineries before landing a job (with the help of his friend and mentor Michel Rolland) in Napa Valley with Andy Erickson. He consulted Screaming Eagle, Ovid, and Arietta. Today, Benoit is the winemaker for Realm Cellars, Hartwell, Kata, and many other labels, including his project Fait-Main (which translates to “handmade”).

Tasting Notes:

Excellent, with a fresh style, lively but with a texture that is a pleasure to drink. White peach, citrus blossom, honeysuckle, and a kiss of brioche emerge from this impeccably balanced Chardonnay.