By Elisabeth Secrettand

The Tastevin, an emblematic object of the wine world, intrigues wine enthusiasts when it has passionate collectors for centuries. As a passionate anticipate installed in Burgundy, I had the opportunity to observe closely the evolution of this unique tool, whose history goes back to Antiquity. Let's dive together in the origins and traditions of this small metal cup which marked the art of tasting wine.

Of ancient origins at the rebirth of the Tastevin

The history of the Tastevin takes root in antiquity, with the cut of hygie, Greek goddess of health. However, it is truly in the 15th and 16th centuries that this tool reappears and gains in popularity. The word "Tastevin" itself has its origin in the old French "Taster" (taste) and "wine", testifying to its primary function.

Over the centuries, the Tastevin has experienced several developments:

• Materials: Traditionally made of silver or tin, it can also be in gold, silver metal, tin, stainless steel, earthenware, glass, sandstone or wood.
• Form: Its specific design with a curved background and bumps/hollows makes it possible to better examine the color and limpidity of the wine.
• Use: Initially used by winegrowers to taste wine in dark cellars, it has become a symbol of French wine culture.

The 18th century marked the peak of Tastevin, a period during which it became an essential tool for wine professionals. Its unique shape, designed to reflect light, makes it an ideal instrument to mire wine, even in the darkness of the cellars.

The Tastevin, symbol of traditions and brotherhoods

Over time, the Tastevin has become much more than a simple tasting tool. It has transformed into a true symbol of French wine culture, particularly in Burgundy. This region, renowned for its great vintages, has played an essential role in the history and perpetuation of traditions linked to the Tastevin.

One of the most striking events in the modern history of the Tastevin is the creation of the brotherhood of the knights of the Tastevin in 1934. This brotherhood chose the Tastevin as an emblem, proudly carrying it around the neck during their ceremonies. Today, the brotherhood has no less than 12,000 members, testifying to the persistent craze for this object and the traditions that surround it.

The Tastevin is also honored during Saint-Vincent, an important wine feast. This celebration, which changes places every year in Burgundy, is an opportunity to see thousands of tatevins shining around the participants, consequently perpetuating a secular tradition.

Event	Date	Importance
Creation of the Brotherhood of Knights of Tastevin	1934	Renewal of the symbol of Tastevin
SAINT-VINCENT TOURNANTE	Annual	Celebration of wine culture and Tastevin

Visit the website of the brotherhood here: https://www.tastevin-bourgogne.com

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The evolution of Tastevin: between tradition and modernity

Although the use of Tastevin in tasting has declined with the appearance of inao glasses, more suitable for modern sensory analysis, it retains a place of choice in the hearts of wine lovers. Today, the Tastevin remains mainly used to mire wine, its reflective surface offering an excellent way to examine the dress and the limpidity of the drink.

The Tastevin has also found its place in the world of the collection. Many amateurs and wine professionals bring together tatevins from different eras and regions. The Château du Clos de Vougeot , seat of the brotherhood of the knights of Tastevin, is home to an impressive collection of these precious objects.

The craze for the Tastevin also manifests through amazing records. For example, one of the largest tatevin in the world weighs no less than 700 kg and can contain 4,500 liters of wine! This spectacular creation illustrates well the continuous fascination that this object exerts on the collective imagination.

As an anticipate specializing in the treasures of the past, I can testify to the growing interest in ancient tatevins. These pieces, often finely chopped and engraved, tell the story of viticulture and the arts of the table. They have become popular collectibles , wanted both for their historical value and for their intrinsic beauty.

Tastevin today: between heritage and reinvention

In our time, the Tastevin continues to attract and reinvent itself. Although it is no longer the main tasting tool, it remains a strong symbol of the culture of wine and an object appreciated by amateurs. Here are some aspects of its contemporary use:

1. Gift: Tastevin has become a gift of choice for wine lovers, often offered on special occasions.
2. Decoration: used as a decorative element in cellars and wine bars, it brings a touch of authenticity.
3. Ceremony: During the chapters of the Brotherhood of the Knights of Tastevin, there remains a central element of the rituals.
4. Collection: Ancient Tastevins are sought after by collectors, appreciating their historical and artistic value.

The influence of the Tastevin even extends beyond the wine world. The term has entered the French language as a male noun, testifying to its cultural importance. It is sometimes found metaphorically used to designate objects or concepts linked to the art of tasting and fine appreciation.

By examining the history of the Tastevin, I could see the growing interest of the public for this object steeped in history. Whether they are experienced or simple curious collectors, the Tastevin continues to arouse fascination, combining secular tradition and French art of living.