François Cotat is one of Sancerre’s legendary producers, working from his tiny family cellar in Chavignol and making wine much as his family has since the 1940s. Farming steep vineyards by hand, he works with tiny yields, late harvesting, native yeasts and ageing in old foudre, producing Sauvignon Blanc with remarkable depth, texture and longevity.

From some of his oldest vines comes a beautifully expressive wine, with ripe pear, citrus and orchard fruit layered with white flowers, subtle herbs and a distinctive chalky minerality. There’s generosity and texture through the palate, but the natural richness is balanced by cool acidity and a long, saline finish. Powerful without feeling heavy, it’s precise, full of personality and unmistakably Sancerre.