Back in 1963, l'Ordre Mondial Gourmets Dégustateurs was founded in Paris under the patronage of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Here across the pond, l'Ordre began in the mid-80s. It remained a stable if quasi-somnolent enterprise until 1992 when it awakened and arose with vitality and a song.  In 2005 the name was changed to Societe Mondiale du Vin.

Today there are more than 2000 members of Societe Mondiale du Vin in the United States, more than anywhere else in the world. But what is it? Societe Mondiale du Vin is first and foremost a part of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. It is the arm of this gracious parent that focuses on enjoying, studying and appreciating fine wines and crafted beverages. The Socitete encourages the collection and dissemination of information on wines and quality spirits and provides  recognition for those professionals who are beverage oriented.

Societe events are, as a rule, less formal than are those of the Chaîne and, as often as not, the primary focus of a Societe event is the wine, with food playing an important but, nonetheless, supporting role. Societe events have included: a vertical tasting of Opus One; food pairings with Oregon Pinot Noirs; Sauternes and foie gras; a dinner where guests bring a red Bordeaux from the 1970s; and a dinner built around the wines and foodstuffs of Thomas Jefferson.

A Societe Mondiale du Vin event will almost certainly be one punctuated with song. The great wine associations of the world have their loyal songs, and the Societe rises to the challenge. Our song is inspired by the music of The Boars Head Carol, but the lyrics are composed by the guests at the table while they dine and taste.

If you are a member of the Chaîne and have a joie de vivre and a special interest in wines and crafted beverages, we welcome you to join Societe Mondiale du Vin.