Francois Cotat Les Monts Damnes Sancerre 2024

Produced by Domaine François Cotat in Chavignol, Sancerre, Les Monts Damnés 2024 is one of the most iconic and sought-after expressions of Sauvignon Blanc in the world. François Cotat has achieved cult status among collectors and wine enthusiasts, with his wines regarded as reference points for traditional, terroir-driven Sancerre. Coming from a family deeply rooted in Chavignol, Cotat produces wines that are celebrated for their intensity, complexity and extraordinary ageing potential, often drawing comparisons with the finest white wines of Burgundy for their depth and ability to evolve over time. Les Monts Damnés is one of Sancerre’s legendary vineyard sites, a dramatically steep hillside above Chavignol whose name translates as “the Damned Mountains”, reflecting the demanding work required to cultivate its slopes. The site’s exceptional exposure and limestone-rich soils create wines with remarkable concentration, mineral precision and a powerful sense of place.

Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, Les Monts Damnés 2024 is crafted in François Cotat’s uncompromising traditional style, with spontaneous fermentation using indigenous yeasts and a minimal-intervention approach focused on preserving the character of the vineyard. The wine displays a complex bouquet of ripe citrus, white peach, apricot and pear, layered with white flowers, chalk, flint, fresh herbs and subtle saline notes. On the palate, it is both powerful and refined, combining impressive concentration with vibrant acidity, a dense mineral texture and an exceptionally long finish. While already captivating in its youth, this is a wine built for extended ageing, developing deeper notes of honey, wax, spice and preserved citrus with time in bottle. A true collector’s Sancerre, it pairs beautifully with oysters, lobster, grilled fish, goat’s cheese, fine poultry and elegant seafood dishes.