Winemakers celebrate Saint Vincent's Day on January 22nd, the patron saint of winemakers!
Saint Vincent, Deacon of Zaragoza, suffered martyrdom in 304 in Valencia, Spain. Legend has it that his body was pressed until his blood flowed out: his blood has become a symbol of the pressed grape.
Winemakers gather to thank the patron saint for the past harvest and ask for his protection for the new year. Celebrations are held in every village and many people meet: villagers, friends, tourists, brotherhoods.
This year, the Confrerie Saint Vincent d'Hautvillers also celebrated on Sunday, January 22nd, and among those present was one of our winemakers, Champagne Joseph Desruets, seen here with his family!
During this occasion, winemakers carry a processional banner with a small wooden statue of Saint Vincent through the village. A church service is celebrated, with winemakers dressed in regional costumes bringing a barrel for the offering of new wine, prayers, and hymns asking for Saint Vincent's help and protection.
Afterwards, all participants are invited to a Champagne cocktail ("Champagne d'honneur"): Champagne flows from full pitchers during the traditional speeches and award ceremonies for deserving winemakers.
