Domaine François Cotat Sancerre Les Monts Damnés 2022
Domaine François Cotat
François Cotat is arguably the most singular producer in Sancerre, picking far later than his neighbors and allowing wild fermentation to run its course. The Les Monts Damnés vineyard — its vines clinging to perilously steep Kimmeridgian slopes — yields a Sauvignon Blanc of almost Burgundian density. This is Sancerre for people who think they've outgrown Sancerre.
Nose
Concentrated citrus zest and white floral notes open the glass, followed by ripe gooseberry and a distinctive flinty minerality. A faint honeyed quality hints at the late-harvest philosophy.
Palate
Remarkably full for Sancerre, with layers of citrus, green apple, and gooseberry framed by a textured, almost waxy mouthfeel. The acidity is bright but perfectly integrated, carrying a subtle toasted quality from extended lees contact.
Finish
Long and mineral-driven, with gooseberry and citrus echoing cleanly before a gently honeyed fade.
- Varietal
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Blend
- 100% Sauvignon Blanc
- Vineyards
- Les Monts Damnés — steep south-facing slopes on Kimmeridgian clay-limestone, Chavignol
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
- Skin Contact
- No
Food Pairing
Fresh Crottin de Chavignol with grilled asparagus and a shallot vinaigrette
Working a mere five hectares of Sancerre's most prized slopes, François Cotat continues his family's tradition of hand-harvesting dangerously late and fermenting exclusively with native yeasts in old barrels.
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