Celebrate the saints of wine!

Exploring the Saints of Wine: A Tour of Notable Vineyard Names

Why Are There So Many Wines Named After Saints?

Firstly, many monks played a significant role in reintroducing vine cultivation in France and contributed to naming wines after saints. Additionally, in France, we find numerous terroirs and AOCs named after the villages and towns where the wines originate. Some of these locations bear the names of saints.

Which Saints of Wine Are Famous?

We begin with the Grand Cru Bordeaux wines, featuring Saint-Estèphe, Saint-Émilion, and Saint-Julien. Next, we head to Burgundy with Nuits-Saint-Georges, as well as Saint-Aubin, Saint-Romain, and Saint-Bris. In the Rhône Valley, we encounter the renowned Saint-Joseph and Saint-Pantaléon les Vignes.

In Beaujolais, it's Saint-Amour that enchants us. Along the Loire River,Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil is well-known. Moving to Languedoc, we find Saint-Chinian, Saint-Saturnin, and Saint-Georges d’Orques. Finally, in Alsace, Saint-Hippolyte makes an appearance.

FAQ - Wine saints

Who is the patron saint of winegrowers?

Saint Vincent is the patron saint of winegrowers and vines. His feast day falls on 22 January, in the heart of winter, when the vines have been pruned and are resting. In many wine regions, brotherhoods hold a mass that day followed by a celebration around the new wine.

Why is Saint Vincent linked to wine?

Several reasons come together. His name echoes the words for wine and blood, a popular association that stuck in people's minds. An early martyr, he also became over time the protector of those who work the vines, honoured wherever grapes are grown.

What is the Saint-Vincent tournante?

It is a Burgundy festival honouring Saint Vincent that moves to a different village each year, hence the name tournante. Held since 1938 by the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, it brings the region's winegrowers together for tastings and parades.

Are there other patron saints of the vine?

Yes. Alongside Saint Vincent, several saints are honoured depending on the region, such as Saint Urban, often called upon to protect the vines from frost, Saint Vernier in Auvergne and Saint Morand in Alsace. Each terroir has kept its own devotions over the centuries.

Which wine should you serve for All Saints' Day?

All Saints' Day falls in early November, the season of slow-cooked dishes and game. A red for keeping such as a Saint-Joseph or a Saint-Émilion pairs well with these plates, as does a softer Saint-Amour. For an easy choice, turn to a seasonal selection bought straight from the winemaker.