Saint Vincent in the Rhône Valley: a weekend of tradition and conviviality

When winter envelops the vineyards in a veil of silence, the Rhône Valley comes alive to pay tribute to Saint Vincent, the 4th-century Spanish deacon who became the patron saint of winegrowers. More than just a festival, it is a celebration of conviviality, historically carried on by brotherhoods, which reminds us of the importance of community in a demanding profession.

In 2026, two iconic villages await you for this celebration: Sablet, on Saturday, for a day punctuated by tastings and encounters, and Jonquières-Saint-Vincent, on Sunday, for an immersion in tradition and celebration. Two atmospheres, two ways of experiencing Saint Vincent, but the same promise: warm and authentic moments.

In Sablet, Saint Vincent is a celebration of the senses and stories. Starting at 10:30 a.m., the village streets come alive with tasting workshops where visitors can discover the white wines of the Côtes-du-Rhône Villages Sablet appellation, as well as guest wines from southern Burgundy. Here, you don't just taste the wine: you listen to its story, meet the people who made it, and understand why each vintage is unique.

Around noon, it's time for a gourmet break under a marquee where fresh oysters, truffle omelets, and marc sausages are served. A feast that reminds us that wine pairs perfectly with local flavors. In the afternoon, the local wine cellars invite you to take a tasting tour, accompanied by musical entertainment. You can stroll around, chat with the winemakers, and linger over a wine that surprises you.

At the end of the day, it's time for emotion with the induction of new members by the “Compagnie des Costes du Rhône” followed by a magical moment: the Grande Fiction by Bernard Sorbier, a storyteller who brings the anecdotes of the winemakers to life. The day ends with music from Rock'n Rhône & DJ Super Mix, dancing under the winter sky.

The next day, Jonquières-Saint-Vincent takes over with a colorful and emotional celebration. At 9:30 a.m., the village church hosts a picturesque mass, where jeroboams (giant bottles) are blessed amid songs and prayers. It is a solemn moment, where you can feel the winegrowers' devotion to their patron saint.

Around 10:30 a.m., the procession sets off from the cooperative winery. Imagine: Saint Vincent on his carriage, followed by brotherhoods in costume, cigalouns (little folkloric characters), ladies in Arles dresses, and gardians on horseback. A joyful farandole, set to the rhythm of traditional music, crosses the village to the cross of Peïre Fioc. There, a speech in lengo nostro (Provençal) and an invocation to Saint Vincent remind us of the deep attachment to this land and its traditions.

Back in the village, it's time for a peasant snack, offered by local estates. A simple and generous moment, where bread, charcuterie, and cheese are shared, washed down with local wines from Costières de Nîmes appellation. Then come the inductions into the “Order of the Drink and Strict Observance of the Costières de Nîmes”, where new personalities join the brotherhood.

The morning continues with tastings, a concert, and a variety of food options, before ending on a high note with a gourmet banquet prepared by Michelin-starred chef Damien Sanchez. A meal where the dishes complement the wines and celebrate the Rhône Valley's art of living.