Producer: Francois Cotat 
Region: Chavignol, Sancerre, Loire Valley, France 
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc 
Year: 2021 

Vinous, 94 Points 

"The 2020 Sancerre La Grande Côte is a fine wine with a piercing nose of floral and flint. While it may be dry, it offers a sensation of sweet fruit and high alcohol (14.5%), which Cotat compares to the ripe 2009 and 1990 vintages. Being late-picked and on a south slope, these grapes get ripe, and in this vintage, I can't help but think that the balance has been slightly knocked by this ripeness. That said, it offers delectable texture and sinew and remains an impressive wine. Tasting the 2009 Cul de Beaujeu soon after, high alcohol (15%) remains evident with bottle age." 

About the Producer: 

"Cotat Sancerre is simply some of the most singular Sauvignon Blanc in the world. Like his cousin Pascal, François Cotat (with his winery in Chavignol) crafts uncanny wines that defy both time and definition. These are wines that can age for decades, marrying richness with a laserlike cut and energy. The Cotat family has tended grapes on the slopes of Chavignol since the end of World War II; it was in the 1990s when the two Cotat brothers, Paul and Francis, handed over the family domaine to their sons, François and Pascal, respectively. François Cotat as a rule harvests by hand and late, as pushing ripeness to the extreme is one element that gives his wines their weighty texture and complexity."

Aromas of yellow stone fruits, citrus, light smoke, wildflowers. Poached pear, candied quince; hints of anise."

Pairing Suggestions: Fresh goats’ cheese, white meats and sushi. 

*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ than pictured.