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Kevin O'Leary, famously known as "Mr. Wonderful" from Shark Tank, once shared details about his membership in the Chevaliers du Tastevin, an exclusive wine connoisseurs' fraternity, during a discussion in Shark Tank season 5, episode 19, aired in 2014.
"I am member of a group called the Chevaliers du Tastevin. It is a secret society of Burgundy drinkers," Kevin O'Leary said.
The fraternity, officially named Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, celebrates Burgundy wines and gastronomy with traditions dating back centuries. O'Leary explained that members gather every 90 days to sample exquisite wines, some dating as far back as 1902, using a silver 'tastevin'— a shallow cup designed for wine tasting.
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However, maintaining the cup’s purity is important, and dirty cups result in exclusion from gatherings. The society’s French name translates to "Fraternity of Knights of the Wine-Tasters' Cup," highlighting its focus on heritage and taste.
Origins and traditions of the Chevaliers du Tastevin, the society Kevin O'Leary belongs to
The Chevaliers du Tastevin was founded in 1934 as a response to the economic challenges faced by Burgundy's wine industry during the early 20th century. Its primary goal was to promote Burgundy wines and cuisine, thereby revitalizing the region’s cultural and economic significance.
The founders began hosting formal banquets, where they presented local wines and traditional dishes to distinguished guests. These gatherings quickly became integral to the fraternity's identity and activities. Members of the Chevaliers du Tastevin wear ceremonial robes, designed in the style of 16th-century academic garments.
These robes reflect the historical and cultural roots of the organization. Each member also uses a tastevin, which is a shallow, silver cup that was historically designed to assist in evaluating the color and clarity of wine in low-light conditions, such as candle-lit wine cellars. The tastevin is an important symbol of the fraternity and continues to be used in its events and ceremonies.
Currently, the society includes over 12,000 members worldwide and has a presence in multiple countries, which Kevin O'Leary is a part of. The organization’s headquarters is situated at Clos de Vougeot, a vineyard established in the 12th century by Cistercian monks. This location serves as the site for the society's key events, known as Chapitres.
In an interview with Wine Spectator that was published on November 17, 2021, Kevin O'Leary said,
"I've been wearing a tastevin for decades because I am a member of the Chevaliers du Tastevin, which is a Burgundian Society."
Membership and global presence of Chevaliers du Tastevin
Joining the Chevaliers du Tastevin involves a selective process that highlights the fraternity’s focus on exclusivity and commitment to Burgundy’s cultural and wine heritage. Prospective members must be sponsored by two existing members, ensuring that candidates are familiar with the fraternity's values and traditions.
Additionally, candidates are required to demonstrate a refined appreciation for wine and a genuine interest in Burgundy’s culture, history, and gastronomy.
The fraternity has established chapters in various countries, including Morocco, Australia, and others, reflecting its global reach. Despite this widespread presence, the organization maintains a controlled membership process to preserve its exclusivity and focus on quality over quantity.
Apart from its social and ceremonial gatherings, the Chevaliers du Tastevin engages in activities that promote Burgundy’s wine industry. Among these is the annual 'Le Tastevinage' competition, where wines from the region are evaluated by a panel of experts. Wines deemed exceptional are awarded the Chevaliers du Tastevin label, which serves as a mark of distinction and quality.
Watch Kevin O'Leary in the latest season of Shark Tank, airing every Friday on ABC.
