When I first heard about Bee D’Vine, a wine crafted from honey rather than grapes, I was immediately intrigued. Ayele Solomon, the founder of Bee D’Vine, brought this unique product to the forefront in Season 12, Episode 5 of Shark Tank, and his journey since then is nothing short of fascinating. From promoting sustainability to redefining the wine industry, Solomon’s story is one of innovation, resilience, and passion.
The Birth of Bee D’Vine
Bee D’Vine wasn’t just another entrepreneurial venture—it was born out of Ayele Solomon’s mission to conserve the Kafa rainforest in Ethiopia. As a conservationist, Solomon recognized the economic pressures driving deforestation. His solution? Introduce modern beekeeping to local communities, providing them with a sustainable income and a reason to protect the forest.
From this noble cause came Bee D’Vine, a barrel-aged honey wine that not only tastes divine but also supports environmental conservation. With prices ranging from $39 to $49 per bottle, this wasn’t your average wine—it was a premium product with a purpose.
Stepping into the Tank
Solomon’s pitch aired in November 2020, during one of the most watched seasons of Shark Tank. He entered the Tank seeking $750,000 in exchange for 20% equity, valuing Bee D’Vine at $3.75 million. As he presented his four varieties of honey wine, the Sharks couldn’t help but praise the taste and uniqueness of the product.
One of the standout moments was Solomon’s passionate storytelling. He shared his mission to protect the Ethiopian rainforest and uplift local communities, making his pitch more than just about numbers. Yet, numbers matter on Shark Tank, and Bee D’Vine’s sales history raised some eyebrows. The company had generated $400,000 in sales over six years, with only $115,000 in the past year. For a product priced at a premium, these figures seemed low.
Despite the concerns, Solomon’s sincerity and the product’s quality left a lasting impression. The Sharks recognized the potential for growth and the story’s marketability, setting the stage for a unique deal.
The Deal That Made Waves
After some deliberation, a rare four-Shark deal was proposed. Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, and Daniel Lubetzky offered a combined $750,000 for 40% equity, splitting it evenly among themselves at 10% each. Solomon accepted the offer, marking a significant moment in Shark Tank history.
However, as is often the case, the deal didn’t finalize post-show. Despite this, Bee D’Vine saw a surge in interest and sales, proving that sometimes, the exposure alone can be a game-changer.
A Quick Glance at Bee D’Vine’s Journey
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Bee D’Vine’s Shark Tank journey and beyond:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Bee D’Vine |
| Founder | Ayele Solomon |
| Season & Episode | Season 12, Episode 5 (November 2020) |
| Ask (Investment & Equity) | $750,000 for 20% equity |
| Final Deal | $750,000 for 40% equity (10% each to Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, and Daniel Lubetzky) |
| Shark(s) Involved | Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, Daniel Lubetzky |
| Memorable Episode Moments | Sharks praised the taste; concerns over high price point and low sales; unique four-Shark deal |
| Current Net Worth | Approximately $1.2 million (as of 2024) |
| Current Business Status | Active |
| Revenue Since Shark Tank | $115,000 in 2022; sales increased by 250% by 2022 |
| Social Media Presence | Instagram: ~5,000 followers; active engagement showcasing products and Ethiopian heritage |
| Key Achievements | Expanded product line to include wines made from Ethiopian and Tanzanian honey; introduced traditional grape wine; maintained commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation; featured in TIME’s List of the 100 Best Inventions (2020) |
Life After Shark Tank
Even though the deal didn’t close, Bee D’Vine’s exposure on Shark Tank propelled the business to new heights. Sales increased by 250% within two years, and the company expanded its product line to cater to a wider audience. In addition to honey wine, Bee D’Vine began producing grape wine, offering a chardonnay priced at $28 to appeal to more budget-conscious consumers.
The commitment to sustainability remained unwavering. Bee D’Vine continued sourcing honey from Ethiopian and Tanzanian forests, ensuring that the communities involved benefitted from every bottle sold. The company also maintained a strong social media presence, using platforms like Instagram to showcase its products and mission.
Where Are They Now?
As of January 2025, Bee D’Vine is thriving. With an estimated net worth of $1.2 million, the company has firmly established itself in the premium wine market. While annual revenue figures remain undisclosed, the growth in sales and product diversification speaks volumes about the company’s upward trajectory.
Bee D’Vine’s story continues to inspire. By aligning business goals with environmental conservation, Solomon has created a brand that resonates with socially conscious consumers. The company’s future looks bright, with potential for further expansion and innovation.
Lessons from Bee D’Vine’s Journey
Bee D’Vine’s journey offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Passion Drives Success: Solomon’s deep connection to his mission made his pitch memorable and his brand authentic. Consumers and investors alike are drawn to passion.
- Adaptability is Key: Recognizing the need to diversify, Bee D’Vine introduced a more affordable product line, broadening its market reach.
- Exposure Matters: Even without a finalized deal, the Shark Tank platform elevated Bee D’Vine’s visibility, proving the power of strategic marketing.
- Stay True to Your Mission: Bee D’Vine’s commitment to sustainability has been a cornerstone of its success, showing that purpose-driven businesses can thrive.
Final Thoughts
Bee D’Vine is more than just a wine brand; it’s a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and innovation. Ayele Solomon’s vision has not only created a unique product but also made a meaningful impact on the environment and local communities.
As I reflect on Bee D’Vine’s journey, I’m reminded of the incredible potential that lies in combining passion with purpose. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a wine enthusiast, Bee D’Vine’s story is one worth toasting to. Cheers!