According to custom, the statue of Saint Vincent resides in the home of a wine-maker. And every year a different wine estate takes on the responsibility and the honour of hosting the sculpted wood statue of the little Saint. The statue moving house (so to speak) is marked by a lovely procession through the village. A fanfare signals the start of the parade, which makes stops at Place Sainte Marie and Place de la Croix Blanche. Hunting horns sound out and the “Gais Rullyotins”, a folk dance troupe, perform. When people hear music outside they all come out and join the parade. People meet, see old friends, or make new ones.

This year, the statue of Saint Vincent moves from Erell Ninot’s wine estate to Paul Jacqueson’s. Erell Ninot and his brother will have the honour of carrying the saint through the village on their shoulders. The sum of their ages is less than 50! They belong to the new generation of young wine-makers. Stéphane holds up the Rully wine-makers’ ancient banner and Jean-Claude, head of the Union, marches at his side.

At the Jacqueson estate all is in place for the Saint’s entrance. Paper flowers adorn hedges, a big tent has been put up for parade-goers, and bottles of white wine have been opened and placed on the barrels that are being used as makeshift stands. The statue of the Saint arrives and is placed so as to preside over the evening. With his look, he blesses all present – but the wine-makers present are entitled to a small extra smile from him, as he is their patron saint.

More pictures ...