JURADE DE SAINT-EMILION

After having fallen under English domination in 1152, Saint-Emilion sought to obtain its administrative, legal and financial autonomy. Since the arrival of the Benedictine order, the religious influence of Saint-Emilion never ceased to grow. The walled city, therefore, became an important spiritual center based around its collegiate church and accompanying cloister. The charter of Falaise signed by John Lackland, King of England, acknowledged and recognized its influence by creating the Jurade of Saint-Emilion.

The powers and rights of the Jurade were spread over eight parishes of the Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion. They played a central role in winegrowing issues. The institution, thus, overlooks the production and crafting of « fine » wines. It possesses the “hot stamp of the vinetier” that is embossed on each barrel. The Jurats equally proclaim the “Ban des Vendanges” (Harvesting Permission). Guarantors of quality, the members of the Jurade control against abuses or fraud and ensure the destruction of wine that is judged unworthy. In this manner the city of Saint-Emilion was prosperous by virtue of the development of its commerce.

It was in 1948 that the Jurade of Saint-Emilion became the first of Bordeaux’s brotherhoods to be re-established.

It is currently composed of approximately 120 Jurats that are Winegrowers, Wine Merchants or public figures that are working for the reputation and renown of Saint-Emilion around the world.