Experience the uncompromising philosophy of Francois Cotat, who makes Cotat, not Sancerre, with us on Nov 20 (Thurs).
In Chavignol, Francois tends just 3 hectares of ancient vines, many over 50 years old, clinging to the steep chalk cliffs of Monts Damnes, Le Cul de Beaujeu, and La Grande Cote. These are the same Kimmeridgian marls that define Chablis, but here they yield Sauvignon Blanc of staggering intensity and precision. Every task—from pruning to harvest—is performed by hand. François often picks last for maximum ripeness, coaxing vibrant layers of fruit, stone, and salt from the terroir.
He rejects the polished, early-picked, stainless-steel archetype of modern Sancerre. Instead, he ferments with indigenous yeasts in old demi-muids, racks according to the lunar calendar, and bottles unfiltered—minimal sulphur is his only concession. The wines emerge round, powerful, and profoundly mineral, often carrying alcohol and texture that push against appellation limits. So singular is their profile that the INAO has, in multiple vintages, denied them Sancerre status altogether, relegating them to Vin de France. The declassification serves as a mark of terroir authenticity, a guarantee of character.
From half a hectare of Pinot Noir (with a whisper of Gamay), he crafts a rosé and an ultra-rare red—both labeled “Chavignol” when the rules allow, both revelations of finesse and depth.
These wines evolve for decades, unveiling complex layers of citrus, stone, and honeyed depth. Even now, they shine.
Four rare wines poured (only 30,000 bottles across all cuvées annually):
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Les Caillottes 2019 – from pebbly lower slopes, vibrant yet generously textured with flint and stone fruit.
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Les Culs de Beaujeu 2022 – the steep, chalk-drenched heart of Chavignol, vivid and profound in its youth.
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Chavignol Rosé 2019 – pale, precise, and perilously rare; a rosé of uncommon finesse.
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Chavignol Rouge 2019 – silken, spiced, an elegant red that only goes through partial malolactic fermentation and is therefore always bottled as Vin de France
With just 8 spots available, tickets are $300 per person. Reserve your spot now!
For those interested, please email sales@vynluna.com with name, number of participants, and all participants’ email addresses, as spaces are limited. Payment is required in advance to confirm your reservation.
Event Details
Date: 20 Nov 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm
Location: Vynluna Wines - Central Shop
G/F Shop, 5 Chiu Lung Street, Central, Hong Kong
Price: HK$300 per person
Format: Stand-up Tasting
Featured Wines:
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Les Caillottes 2019
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Les Culs de Beaujeu 2022
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Chavignol Rose 2019
Domaine Francois Cotat Sancerre Chavignol Rouge 2019
Terms and conditions:
Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
Vynluna Wines Limited reserves the right of final decision in case of disputes.
Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets purchased are non-refundable.
Limited seats available. Full charge for no shows.
By attending the event, you acknowledge that photography, audio, and video recording may take place. By entering the event premises, you give consent for such media to be recorded, released, published, exhibited, or reproduced.
If the number of registered participants is less than 6, this event will be cancelled, and participants will be notified at least 1 day in advance for a full refund arrangement.
Please understand that back vintage and natural wines come with risks. We do not offer replacements for new bottles or refunds on the ticket price.