Saint Vincent, the patron saint of winemakers, is honoured annually in Burgundy during the Saint-Vincent Tournante festival. In 2025, the festival will take place in Ladoix-Serrigny (Côte-d’Or). The festival, always organised on the last weekend of January, is not only a tribute to Saint Vincent, but also a celebration of Burgundy’s rich wine culture. It revolves around wine, gastronomy and tradition.
Origins of the festival
Saint Vincent was proclaimed the patron saint of wine growers in the Middle Ages, possibly because of the symbolism of his name: after all, “Vin” means wine in French. According to legend, Vincent was a deacon in Zaragoza, Spain, who was unjustly persecuted during his lifetime. After his death, he became a symbol of strength and protection for farmers and winegrowers.
The Saint-Vincent Tournante was first organised in 1938 by the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, a fraternity honouring Burgundian wine traditions. The idea was to designate a different village in Burgundy to host each year, so that the diversity of the region’s viticulture could be presented.
A cultural and culinary experience
The festival usually begins with a colourful procession in which brotherhoods of wine growers carry images of Saint Vincent through the streets. The participating villages are beautifully decorated especially for the occasion, often with flowers and artworks referring to the vineyards.
Visitors get the chance to taste local wines from different appellations. At the entrance to the festival, guests often receive a specially designed tasting glass that serves as a souvenir. Besides the wine tastings, there are markets, concerts, and exhibitions that reflect the region’s rich culture.
The spirit of togetherness
Saint-Vincent Tournante is not only a tribute to wine; it also brings people together. The festival highlights Burgundy’s sense of community, where winemakers, residents and visitors meet to share their passion for wine and culture. Every year, the festival attracts thousands of visitors. It is a fun and interesting way to get closer to wine, and of course to taste it!