Definition: Commanderies

Associations created by the Grand Conseil du Vin de Bordeaux, composed of wine lovers and professionals from the industry who meet in their respective countries, regions and cities to learn about and appreciate all aspects of Bordeaux appellations. Acting as true embassies, they represent Bordeaux wine throughout the world. They also serve to deepen the ongoing relations between Bordeaux and all the different countries where they are established. The creation of a Commanderie must follow certain rituals and is formalised by the establishment of a Charter. The Master (Bordeaux Wine Advisor and Chief Magistrate) is always a highly respected figure in his or her country. Under no circumstances can this person be a wine professional. Furthermore, he or she is the only person to receive a delegation from the Grand Council to be its representative. The Commanderie chooses its members by co-optation, without the Grand Council having to intervene. Its many activities depend on the personalities of its members; however, everything related to Bordeaux wine and its environment, whether recreational, cultural or other, is given priority. There are currently 51 Commanderies around the world: 21 in the USA, 8 in Canada, 16 in Europe, 1 in Africa and 5 in Asia. In general, a commandery has between 25 and 60 members, although some can have up to 350 members (this is the case in French-speaking Switzerland and at the Baillot Bordelais in Paris, which is made up of a large number of restaurateurs and wine professionals).