The haunting sounds of bagpipes filled the air as the Lyon branch of the Confrérie de l’Ordre des Taste-Whisky Écossais (COTWE) celebrated its 59th Grand Chapter at the Admiral on Saturday, May 23rd. It was a refined and solemn affair, where the elegance of Scottish tradition met the Lyonnaise art of living, bringing together around sixty guests for a ceremony steeped in prestige and tradition.
A Timeless Evening of Scottish Splendor in Lyon
The evening, graced by the presence of Éric Leclerc, national president of the confraternity, and Michel Serraille, president of the ethics committee, transported attendees to a world where ancient customs and the appreciation of fine Scottish whiskies intertwined. From the very first notes played by the four bagpipers, guests were immersed in the captivating and codified universe of this confraternity dedicated to the grand whiskies of Scotland.
High dignitaries traveled from various regions, including Roanne, Dijon, Annecy, Toulouse, Franche-Comté, Burgundy, and even the Var, to partake in this exceptional moment. Surrounding Roger Gauthier, the commanding president, were Jean-Pierre Arthaud, chamberlain; Régis Coulongeat, herald of arms; Patrick Peslier, provost; Michel Lebuy, cupbearer; Tarak Aouiti, cross of honor; and Jean-Louis Feroy, national grand herald of arms.
The Heart of the Ceremony: Inductions and Toasts
The highlight of the evening was the induction of Diana Dunbar and Michelle Spain, who were elevated to the rank of Lady Knights, while René-Claude Garnier and René Rodriguez received the title of Knight, met with enthusiastic applause from the assembly. Each new inductee was led before the induction table to receive the traditional Quaich, a symbolic cup of Scottish friendship. After fervently raising the famous toast “slàinte,” meaning “health” in Gaelic, they received their insignias and signed the confraternity’s golden book.
A dedicated table was assigned to each new inductee, symbolizing their new status within the confraternity. René-Claude Garnier, for instance, was ceremoniously escorted by Régis Coulongeat, the herald of arms, to his place among the newly inducted members after his investiture.
Both the national president, Éric Leclerc, and the commanding president of the Lyon branch, Roger Gauthier, addressed the assembly at the beginning of the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Scottish whisky.
More Than Just Whisky: A Celebration of Culture and Fellowship
This grand evening demonstrated that the art of whisky can indeed rhyme with emotion and distinction. It was a testament to the enduring appeal of Scottish traditions and the power of fellowship, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a common passion.
The event served as a vibrant cultural bridge, connecting the historical and spirited world of Scottish whisky with the refined lifestyle of Lyon. It highlighted how such confraternities play a crucial role in maintaining cultural practices and fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts.
As the bagpipes faded and the last toasts were made, the memory of the 59th Grand Chapter lingered, a reminder of a night where tradition, elegance, and camaraderie converged in the heart of Lyon.
Source: https://www.lyonpeople.com/actualites-lyon/actualites-culturelles-patrimoine/lyon-celebre-lesprit-ecossais-faste-et-traditions-au-59e-grand-chapitre-des-taste-whisky-2026-05-30.html
