Benoit Touquette

I grew up in Lyon, dreaming of becoming either a fighter pilot or an engineer. Winemaking was never on my radar until I found myself in Bordeaux, working on mobile bottling lines to fund my graduate studies. The unwavering passion of the winemakers I encountered there was transformative. Their relentless dedication, showing up every day with the same spark of enthusiasm, inspired me to shift my focus to oenology. I pursued and completed two degrees in the field before leaving France to intern with Andy Erickson in Napa Valley, where I discovered endless possibilities in winemaking.

In Napa, I worked tirelessly, learning from every opportunity and honing my skills to craft wines that reflect my vision. I’ve never missed a harvest day and remain fully committed to dedicating as much time as necessary to ensure the wines are just right. My passion led me to establish my own collection under the Fait-Main and Teeter-Totter labels, inspired by my love for unique vineyards—one after another. Recently, I felt compelled to create additional barrel-selection blends to showcase the distinct character of these remarkable properties. Each wine in the barrel tells its own story, and these special bottlings are crafted in small batches to highlight their individuality. I hope you enjoy these limited creations as much as I enjoyed bringing them to life.Benoit Touquette’s journey in fine winemaking spans continents and exemplifies a dedication to excellence. Beginning in Bordeaux, he honed his craft under the mentorship of the legendary Michel Rolland. Upon relocating to Napa Valley, Benoit quickly emerged as one of the region’s most sought-after winemakers and is now a partner at Realm Cellars. Known for his ability to balance elegance and power, his work has garnered an astounding 28 perfect 100-point ratings, solidifying his place at the forefront of modern winemaking.

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2022 PANACHE

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Great wine deserves to be taken seriously, and Panache Barrel Select Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. Each of the 10 Teeter-Totter barrels selected for this blend is carefully chosen for its remarkable intensity, depth, and lasting structure. Yet, despite its seriousness, Panache exudes an effortless elegance from the moment the cork is pulled.For this debut vintage, we focused on achieving superior quality, accessibility, and an irresistible charm. The 2022 vintage, shaped by another year of lower yields, delivered exceptional concentration and velvety tannins. Bold, impeccably balanced, and unapologetically intense, it invites you to indulge in layers of savory black fruits, melted chocolate, dark-roast espresso, and a touch of cedar spice.

$150 (Inquire to purchase)

02

2023 Avant

Napa Valley Chardonnay

Exceptional wine warrants thoughtful attention, and Avant Barrel Select Chardonnay is no exception. Handpicked from just eight distinguished Teeter-Totter barrels, this blend showcases remarkable elegance, depth, and a lively, vibrant structure. Despite its meticulous craftsmanship and refined character, Avant effortlessly exudes an inviting charm from the moment the cork is drawn, offering an experience of sophistication and approachability in every glass.For this inaugural vintage, we focused on achieving exceptional quality, approachability, and an irresistible allure. The 2023 growing season, marked by abundant yields, resulted in a wine of remarkable concentration and luxurious texture. Elegantly balanced and beautifully complex, it entices the palate with layers of ripe orchard fruits, creamy lemon curd, toasted hazelnut, and a delicate whisper of vanilla bean.

$75 (sold out)

03

2021 Teeter-Totter

Cabernet Sauvignon
Barrel Selection Series California

Amazing wine should always be appreciated, and the Teeter-Totter Barrel Selection Series California Cabernet Sauvignon embodies that principle. Crafted from 28 carefully selected barrels sourced from Paso Robles, Lake County, and Napa Valley, this blend strikes a balance between intensity, depth, and structure. Despite its bold character, the Barrel Selection Series delivers an approachable and smooth Cabernet, ready to enjoy from the first pour.For this debut vintage, we emphasized quality, drinkability, and undeniable appeal. The 2021 growing season provided exceptional conditions, resulting in a wine with vibrant concentration and soft tannins. Medium bodied and very accessible, this Cabernet invites you to explore layers of ripe red cherry and black fruits, hints of cocoa nibs, dark espresso roast, and a touch of sweet forest floor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a wine that delivers both complexity and charm without pretense.