François Cotat – The Mineral Soul of Sancerre

A family heritage rooted in Chavignol

In the heart of Chavignol, the cradle of great Sancerre wines, François Cotat continues a family tradition of artisan winemaking and terroir respect. The estate’s philosophy is simple: minimal intervention, maximum expression.

Exceptional terroirs

The vineyards are planted on steep slopes composed of limestone, clay, and flint, producing Sauvignon Blancs of remarkable depth and minerality. These privileged sites give the wines their crystalline purity, natural tension, and long aging potential.

Sustainable viticulture & hand harvesting

François Cotat follows a sustainable, near-organic approach with no chemical herbicides, gentle soil management, and manual harvests. Only perfectly ripe grapes are selected to ensure precision and balance.

Natural winemaking & long aging

Fermentations occur with indigenous yeasts, without fining or filtration. Slow pressing and long fermentations respect the natural rhythm of the wine. Aging takes place in old oak barrels, allowing complexity and texture to develop harmoniously over time.

Signature style

François Cotat’s wines are both powerful and refined, marked by vibrant minerality, citrus and white fruit aromas, and a lingering saline finish. They represent one of the purest and most ageworthy expressions of Chavignol’s terroir.

Key cuvées

• Sancerre “Les Monts Damnés” – tension, depth, and purity.

• Sancerre “La Grande Côte” – broad, mineral, and saline.

• Sancerre “Les Culs de Beaujeu” – complex, structured, and long.

• Sancerre “Caillottes” – accessible and pure expression of the vintage.

• Sancerre Rosé – rare Pinot Noir, delicate and refreshing.