Cooperative
wineries

What is a winemaking cooperative? 

Winemaking cooperatives have occupied a prominent role in the Bordeaux wine landscape since the early 20^th century. Operating on the principle that it is more efficient to pool production costs, cooperatives bring together multiple winegrowers in pursuit of a shared objective: to produce high-quality wines while securing the long-term economic stability of all involved.

How does it
work?

It’s all about collective dynamism

Winemaking cooperatives, often simply referred to as “co-ops” in the business, buy grapes in bulk. They choose their fruit depending on its origin, the grape varieties on offer and various other criteria. They then transform those grapes into wine, with respect for the production criteria applicable to each wine category. The co-op then takes charge of selling the wine (directly to consumers, to merchants, or to export markets). Thanks to their substantial production volumes and considerable storage capacities, winemaking cooperatives also act as a regulating force in the wine market, helping to maintain the economic stability of the sector.

As vectors for mutual support among winegrowers, their role transcends the economic sphere.
Cooperatives are true pillars of the Bordeaux wine region, providing winegrowers with invaluable technical support and helping to drive up quality. They provide training on vineyard management, and the many important choices to be made throughout the growing season. The results are plain to see: continuous improvement in the quality of the wines produced in the region, and a sense of security which allows winegrowers – whether they are old hands or new talents just starting out – to pursue their professional dreams.

It’s all about putting people first. The cooperative system has helped countless independent producers to keep their businesses alive, to access administrative or financial support, and to boost their professional capabilities. Co-ops allow winegrowers to share and evolve together, contributing to the collective identity of Bordeaux wines while benefiting from the expertise and organizational structure of the cooperative.