Saint-Vincent de Chinon

Saint-Vincent de Chinon in Cravant-les-Côteaux

The Saint-Vincent de Chinon is the most important traditional wine festival in the Chinonais region. It takes place every year at the end of January in Cravant-les-Côteaux, a wine-growing commune in the heart of the AOC Chinon appellation, and brings together nearly 1,000 people – winegrowers, families, brotherhoods, and wine lovers – for the celebration of the patron saint of winegrowers.

A Traditional Procession

The day opens with the procession of the statue of Saint Vincent through the streets of Cravant-les-Côteaux. This procession, in which the appellation's winegrowers and representatives of wine brotherhoods participate, follows the village paths in a solemn and festive atmosphere. The procession leads participants to the commune's church for a traditional religious ceremony.

Cellars and Tastings

After the ceremony, the festivities continue with cellar visits and Chinon wine tastings. Winegrowers open their doors and share their vintages, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the reds, rosés, and whites of the AOC Chinon, mainly from the cabernet franc grape variety. These moments of sharing embody the spirit of conviviality and generosity that characterizes Saint-Vincent.

The Festive Meal

A grand festive meal then brings together all participants in a community hall or under a marquee. This banquet, accompanied by Chinon wines, is a highlight of fraternity and conviviality where winegrowers and guests share dishes from the Touraine region. Speeches, toasts, and songs punctuate this meal in the tradition of great wine gatherings.

Cravant-les-Côteaux, Land of Wine

Cravant-les-Côteaux is one of the historic communes of the AOC Chinon appellation, with its south-facing slopes overlooking the Vienne river and its tufa soils conducive to the production of high-quality cabernet franc. Saint-Vincent holds particular importance here, attesting to the deep roots of viticulture in the identity of this Touraine commune.