Yves Martin, Sancerre Chavignol La Cote Des Monts Damnes, 2023

What is this wine?
Yves Martin is a small family estate based in Chavignol, one of the most renowned villages in Sancerre. The domaine is known for precise, terroir-driven Sauvignon Blancs from steep, limestone- and marl-rich slopes. La Côte des Monts Damnés is a single-vineyard bottling from one of Sancerre’s most famous crus—its name means “the slope of the damned,” a reference to its vertiginous, hard-to-work hillside.

Why get this wine?
Monts Damnés is a benchmark site, producing some of the most structured, ageworthy Sancerres. Yves Martin’s cuvée captures the essence of this terroir at outstanding value compared with more famous names like Vatan or Boulay. For fans of mineral, powerful Sauvignon Blanc, this is an insider’s bottle from a top vineyard.

What does this wine taste like?
Focused and energetic, with citrus, green apple, and gooseberry layered over crushed stone, white flowers, and a chalky, saline backbone. The palate is taut and textural, finishing long and mineral.

When should you drink this wine?
Delicious now for its vibrancy, but capable of aging 5–8 years for more complexity. Excellent with goat cheese (especially Crottin de Chavignol), oysters, or grilled fish.