Fête de la Cerise de Coulanges-la-Vineuse

Coulanges-la-Vineuse, village of cherries and vines

The Fête de la Cerise de Coulanges-la-Vineuse is the living expression of a dual agricultural and fruit-growing vocation: this village in the Auxerrois region is both an important wine-growing village and one of the centers of cherry production in the Yonne. Perched on a promontory overlooking the valleys, it offers a unique landscape where cherry orchards and vineyards coexist on the same sunny hillsides.

The cherry, treasure of the Auxerrois hillsides

Cherry cultivation occupies a large part of the Pays Coulangeois landscape, mainly around the communes of Coulanges-la-Vineuse, Jussy, Gy-l'Évêque, and Irancy. In June, the cherry trees laden with fruit offer a striking spectacle on the south-facing slopes. The Fête de la Cerise is an opportunity to celebrate this exceptional local production and to meet the producers directly.

• Fresh cherries for direct sale, harvested that morning
• Picking in the cherry orchards of participating producers
• Derivative products: jams, clafoutis, liqueurs, pastries
• Wines of Coulanges-la-Vineuse and the Auxerrois for tasting
• Local artisans and local producers

A festival in the heart of a village of character

Coulanges-la-Vineuse has obtained the "Cité de Caractère" label, which rewards its efforts in preserving and enhancing its built heritage. The village has a remarkable Romanesque church, troglodyte cellars dug into the limestone, and a beautiful washhouse. The festival takes place in this authentic heritage setting, between the village square and the paths leading to the vineyards.

Entertainment and encounters

Beyond the sales and tasting stands, the Fête de la Cerise offers visits to cherry orchards, explanations of picking techniques, and information on the different varieties of cherries grown in the region. Entertainment for children and musical moments complete the program, making this event a true festive day.

The union of cherry and wine

What makes the Fête de Coulanges-la-Vineuse unique is the natural association between cherry and wine. The winegrowers of Coulanges-la-Vineuse, who produce red and rosé wines from Pinot Noir as well as white Burgundy wines, are naturally present alongside the cherry producers. This proximity between the two cultures, on the same Burgundy lands, gives the festival remarkable richness and gustatory coherence.

The Fête de la Cerise de Coulanges-la-Vineuse thus fits into the long tradition of Burgundy terroir festivals, which celebrate the land, the work of men, and seasonal products in a spirit of conviviality and intergenerational sharing.