Copa Di Vino is one of the most famous beverage brands to emerge from Shark Tank—not because of an investment deal, but because of how its founder James Martin walked away from offers twice. Today, the company stands as a multi-million-dollar success story, valued at around $70 million as of 2023, with a presence in major retailers and hospitality chains across the United States.
The Origin of Copa Di Vino
Copa Di Vino, which means “glass of wine” in Italian, was founded in 2009 by Oregon entrepreneur James Martin. The inspiration struck during a 2007 train trip through France, where Martin saw passengers enjoying wine in single-serve portions. He realized that busy, on-the-go consumers in the U.S. could benefit from a similar concept—convenient, resealable, single-serve wine glasses without the need for a bottle opener.
Key Concept
- Single-serve premium wine in recyclable PET plastic cups.
- Patented resealable design keeps wine fresh after opening.
- Marketed as perfect for concerts, sports games, travel, and outdoor events.
The Shark Tank Drama
James Martin appeared on Shark Tank twice—once in 2011 and again in 2012.
First Appearance (2011)
- Ask: $600,000 for 20% equity.
- Sales: $500,000 in first 6 months.
- Rejected Kevin O’Leary’s royalty-heavy deal focused on packaging patents.
Second Appearance (2012)
- Ask: $300,000 for 5% equity.
- Sharks offered $600,000 for 30% equity (O’Leary, Cuban, Herjavec).
- Martin turned them down again, later admitting he had no intention of accepting an offer, using the platform for national exposure.
These refusals made Martin a controversial figure among Shark Tank fans, but the publicity significantly boosted brand awareness.
Sales Growth and Expansion
Despite leaving the tank without funding, Copa Di Vino experienced rapid growth.
Revenue Milestones
| Year | Sales/Valuation | Key Developments |
| 2010 | $500k in 6 months | Initial launch success |
| 2012 | $5M projected sales | Second Shark Tank appearance |
| 2015 | $20M annual sales | Expansion to major venues and retail |
| 2020 | $5.9M acquisition price | Sold to Splash Beverage Group |
| 2023 | ~$70M estimated value | Over 13,000 new retail locations |
By 2015, Copa Di Vino products were being sold in Walmart, Kroger, and regional grocery chains, as well as at sports stadiums, hotels, and theaters.
Acquisition by Splash Beverage Group
In late 2020, Copa Di Vino was acquired by Splash Beverage Group for $5.9 million. The acquisition allowed the brand to scale distribution rapidly, adding over 13,000 new retail locations and strengthening its hospitality partnerships.
Today, Copa Di Vino is available in:
- Walmart and Kroger stores nationwide
- Convenience chains like 7-Eleven
- Hotel brands such as Marriott and Hilton Garden Inn
- Golf courses, cruise lines, and entertainment venues
Product Range and Pricing
Copa Di Vino offers a variety of wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Moscato, Pinot Grigio, and White Zinfandel.
Pricing Examples:
- Single glass: ~$3.49
- Variety packs: $13.96 – $20.94
- Available via Instacart and in-store; Amazon listings exist but often show “unavailable”
Why Copa Di Vino Stands Out
The brand’s success is not just about convenience—it’s about market timing and understanding consumer needs. Portable alcoholic beverages are a growing trend, and Copa Di Vino positioned itself early as a leader in single-serve wine packaging.
Competitive Advantage:
- Patented Technology: Resealable cups keep wine fresh.
- Broad Market Reach: From grocery aisles to stadiums.
- Brand Story: Two-time Shark Tank “rejection” turned into marketing gold.
- Partnerships: Strategic giveaways with brands like Yeti and RY Outfitters.
The Net Worth Breakdown
While Copa Di Vino sold for $5.9 million in 2020, its current valuation is estimated at $70 million (2023). This jump reflects:
- Increased nationwide distribution
- Strong sales performance in convenience-driven segments
- Brand value from national recognition and strategic partnerships
Estimated Net Worth Timeline
| Year | Estimated Value |
| 2009 | <$1M |
| 2012 | $5–6M |
| 2015 | $20M |
| 2020 | $5.9M (acquisition price) |
| 2023 | ~$70M |
Lessons from Copa Di Vino’s Journey
The Copa Di Vino story offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs:
- Publicity Can Outweigh Investment: Martin used Shark Tank as a marketing tool rather than a funding source.
- Control Over Vision: Refusing deals allowed the founder to maintain brand direction.
- Market Timing is Critical: Entering early into portable alcohol helped secure a loyal customer base.
- Strategic Acquisition Can Fuel Growth: Splash Beverage Group’s resources allowed rapid expansion.
Final Thoughts
Copa Di Vino’s rise from a small Oregon winery’s idea to a $70 million brand is a case study in leveraging exposure, understanding market trends, and controlling brand vision. While the Shark Tank moments drew mixed reactions, they cemented Copa Di Vino’s identity as a bold, independent company that refused to compromise on its goals.
FAQs
Q1: Who founded Copa di Vino?
A: Copa di Vino was founded by James Martin in 2009 in The Dalles, Oregon.
Q2: How did Copa di Vino gain national attention?
A: The brand appeared twice on Shark Tank, which brought widespread exposure even though Martin declined final investment offers.
Q3: What is Copa di Vino’s estimated net worth?
A: Estimates place Copa di Vino’s net worth between $25 million and $30 million, driven by strong retail distribution and innovative packaging.
Q4: Where can I buy Copa di Vino products?
A: Copa di Vino is sold nationwide in stores such as Walmart, Target, Kroger, and various convenience retailers, as well as online.
Q5: What makes Copa di Vino unique in the wine industry?
A: Its patented single-serve wine packaging allows consumers to enjoy wine without a corkscrew or waste, catering to convenience and portability.
Q6: Is Copa di Vino expanding internationally?
A: Yes, the company has expressed plans to expand into international markets, leveraging the growing global demand for ready-to-drink beverages.
