Liverpool has been officially welcomed into the global Bordeaux wine network, the Commanderie de Bordeaux. This prestigious network, established in 1952, connects wine enthusiasts and professionals worldwide to promote Bordeaux wines. Liverpool's inclusion was marked by a ceremony at The Art School restaurant, where chef patron Paul Askew curated the event. The Commanderie de Bordeaux à Liverpool received its Charter from Le Grand Conseil de Vins de Bordeaux, joining 103 other embassies globally. Manchester received its Charter in 1988.

Paul Askew and Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool BID Company, have been instrumental in elevating Liverpool's gastronomic scene over the past two decades. Their efforts have introduced Bordeaux wines to the city, including through the Taste Liverpool. Drink Bordeaux Festival, which began in 2022. Liverpool was also the guest city at the Bordeaux Fete du Vin in 2024.

The ceremony featured notable guests such as Jean Marc Dulong, Head of La Commanderie de Bordeaux, and Allan Sichel, President of the CIVB. Wine growers and sellers from Bordeaux attended, alongside former footballers Peter Reid, John Barnes, and Sammy Lee, and opera singer Alfie Boe. Attendees sampled over 50 varieties of Bordeaux wines, including reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling vintages from vineyards like Chateau Brondelle and Chateau Faugas.

Paul Askew was named Maitre De La Commanderie de Bordeaux à Liverpool, while Bill Addy became Vice-Maitre. The establishment of the Commanderie de Bordeaux à Liverpool marks a new strategic direction for the city's culinary and cultural development. This includes festival activities led by the private sector, such as the return of Taste Liverpool. Drink Bordeaux in 2026 and other food and drink-focused events.

Paul Askew expressed his excitement about Liverpool becoming the latest Commanderie for Bordeaux. He highlighted the long-standing relationship between Liverpool and Bordeaux, which has grown through mutual visits and collaborations. Askew emphasized the honor of his new role and his commitment to promoting Bordeaux wines alongside Bill Addy and the CIVB.

Bill Addy noted the historical ties between Liverpool and Bordeaux, which have evolved into a beneficial friendship. He described Liverpool as the UK's finest food and drink destination, aligning with Bordeaux, one of the world's greatest wine regions. The new Commanderie de Bordeaux in Liverpool formalizes this bond and acknowledges the city's efforts to enhance its culinary reputation.

Jean Marc Dulong, head of La Commanderie de Bordeaux, expressed his delight at visiting Liverpool for the celebration. He thanked Bill and Paul for their hospitality and praised the restaurant's food and service. Dulong emphasized the importance of making Bordeaux wines more well-known, relying on Paul and Bill's connections in Liverpool to achieve this goal.

The Commanderie de Bordeaux network, with over 4,300 members, aims to raise awareness of Bordeaux wines globally. Liverpool's inclusion strengthens this mission, with Paul Askew and Bill Addy playing key roles in showcasing Bordeaux wines throughout the city and beyond.