Since the very beginning in 2009, the organisers of the World Pâté Croûte Championship have made a vow of great conviviality, endorsing the competition as a Brotherhood of Pâté Croûte.

Gilles Demange (President), Arnaud Bernollin (Treasurer) and Audrey Merle (General Secretary) make up the office under the supervision of chef Christophe Marguin.

The aim of this 1901 law association is to promote the Pâté Croûte as the cornerstone of gastronomy. The brotherhood also organises events, culminating in the World Pâté Croûte Championship.

Regarded as a traditional dish, the pâté-croûte has long suffered from industrial charcuterie, even though it is one of the most technical dishes to make and one of the tastiest to enjoy. Few chefs try their hand at it, and those who do all claim to make the best pâté en croûte… so it was time to put them to the test!

After quickly attracting the interest of both the big names and traditional charcuterie companies, and motivating prestigious chefs and craftsmen alike, the championship also attracted a remarkable panel of judges, made up of Michelin-starred chefs, Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (Best Craftsmen in France) and personalities from the world of gastronomy. While many people smiled at the 1st edition, there is no doubt that the championship has won its spurs and established itself over the years as a major gastronomic event.

The Brotherhood honours as ambassadors throughout the world, epicureans and gourmets alike, anyone who contributes to the reputation of Pâté-Croûte.
So every year, the traditional evening celebrating the final of the championship in the grand house of Mr Chapoutier in Tain l’Hermitage continues with Gilles Demange introducing the members of the Brotherhood of Pâté Croûte.

With his sword, the inimitable Arnaud Bernollin, officiating as Grand Master, called upon :
St Laurent, patron saint of cooks,
St Antoine, patron saint of pork butchers,
St Michel, patron saint of pastry chefs…

And Audrey dresses the recipients in the famous black apron of the brotherhood, who are now responsible for spreading the word.