A method is presented for forming a semiconductor structure. The method includes forming a plurality of vertical fins over a semiconductor layer formed over a substrate, depositing an oxide over the plurality of fins, and applying a cutting mask over a portion of the plurality of fins. The method further includes removing the oxide from the exposed portion of the plurality of fins, depositing a replacement gate stack, and etching portions of the replacement gate stack to remove exposed fins, the exposed fins forming recesses within the semiconductor layer. The method further includes depositing a spacer over the exposed fins and the recesses formed by the removed fins. A portion of the plurality of fins are cut during etching of the replacement gate stack and a portion of the oxide is removed before deposition of the replacement gate stack.