The ‘confréries’ or wine brotherhoods of Anjou-Saumur-Touraine are responsible for promoting the various Loire appellations.
They are known by many names and are also called Commanderie or Commandery, Ordre or Order, Confrérie de Chevaliers or Brotherhood of Knights, Confrérie de Compagnons or Brotherhood of Companions. They are part of the Loire’s regional folklore and have a role to play in its wine-related events and festivities, adding a colourful touch particularly with their initiation ceremonies. These wine-loving brotherhoods all have their own ceremonial costumes and symbols.
The groups are organized hierarchically, and each member has a title or rank, bestowed upon him after the initiation ritual conducted by the Grand Master. Despite the solemn nature of the ceremonies and costumes, the festive aspect of the brotherhoods dominates all proceedings.