Student life

At AIVA, student life takes place on a 5,000 m² campus designed for hands-on learning: tasting rooms, an amphitheater, workspaces, and relaxation areas. In small groups, guided by professionals, students learn the trades of wine, beer, and spirits in an atmosphere that is both studious and friendly.

Student life

Students, your success is our priority!

An idyllic setting

5000 m² of classrooms, lecture halls, tasting rooms, and relaxation areas offer an exceptional setting entirely dedicated to studious studies. Teamwork finds a serene space here, allowing each individual to flourish. 

The stated commitment to linking theory to practice translates for the student into quality teaching, delivered by recognized professionals and highly involved partner universities. 

The classrooms are also adapted to our innovative teaching methods: They aim to place the student in a real and professional situation, with quality materials, as is the case for example in our tasting rooms.

A studious and friendly atmosphere

Student life at AIVA is designed to be dynamic and inspiring. Small class sizes foster close relationships between students and teachers, creating a genuine group dynamic where everyone progresses at their own pace.

The diversity of ages and backgrounds—students in initial training, career changers, or already professionals—fosters particularly enriching exchanges of experiences and knowledge. One learns as much from one's peers as from one's professors.

Throughout the year, tastings, group projects, and events punctuate the curriculum and strengthen team spirit. This atmosphere, both studious and friendly, provides everyone with a serene environment to flourish and succeed.

Testimonials

The testimonies of our students and graduates

Video testimonials

Quentin

Lucien

«My Bachelor’s degree in Wines and Spirits at AIVA gave me a comprehensive overview of the diverse range of wine-related professions. The tasting courses are of high quality and allow us to effectively learn about the diversity of wines from around the world.”.

The courses are offered by qualified professionals who, in addition to theoretical concepts, provide us with practical advice to help us make the most of our internships.

I have very fond memories of this training, which allowed me to perfect my knowledge of wines, spirits, and beer while developing skills in sales.»

Clara

«Following a BTS in Sales and Marketing of Wines and Spirits, I chose to pursue the Bachelor of Wines and Spirits at AIVA. Few institutions offer this program across France, and despite the school being relatively new, its curriculum is professional and comprehensive.”.

AIVA is not a school like any other; it offers us the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life who share a common passion: wine. From instructors and guest speakers to students, accessibility and close relationships are key, creating a motivating and stimulating intellectual energy.

We leave AIVA with knowledge about the "skin of wine," and much remains to be discovered, but this experience remains the most enriching I have ever had.«

Celine

«"Passionate about the world of wine, I decided to make it my new career. Before deciding to embark on a longer training program, I wanted to obtain the AIVA certificate to get an idea of my knowledge and, of course, to learn more!"

Clearly, there is a "before and after" the AIVA certificate! You learn the art of proper tasting, with an AIVA approach, glassware, food and wine pairings, and you explore all the wine regions of France in depth, with of course (many) tastings to illustrate each region!

It's perfect for a refresher on the wine regions of France if you are considering becoming a professional, for example, or for any enthusiast who wants to go further in wine tasting.

I spent 15 exciting, fast-paced days, learning and progressing immensely. I regularly use the knowledge I gained to improve my tasting skills.

"True wine tasting isn't something you can just wing; surround yourself with AIVA professionals, and you'll never taste a glass of wine the same way again!"»

Elsa

«"Currently undergoing professional retraining and after several years in real estate, I obtained my BTSA Viticulture-Oenology last year. The DS Manager Sommelier Caviste training allowed me to acquire real knowledge of both wine regions and the commercial aspect and international trade.

Alternating between classes and work experience has been a real asset in this program for me; it allowed me to quickly apply the knowledge I acquired at school and gain genuine professional experience. My goal now is to open my own wine cellar.»

Kevin

«Perfect day for a first introduction to wine.”.

Thank you to the trainer for his advice and knowledge!»

Samy

Maxim

«"Having been passionate about wine for many years, I decided to gradually take the plunge.

However, as the manager of a small business, it was essential that the chosen training allowed me to reconcile my current professional life with my future one, and that is what AIVA made possible.

From my first exchanges with Mr. Yvan Gerber, the educational manager, and Ms. Karine Larchevêque, the administrative manager, I felt listened to and understood in the pursuit of my professional reorientation project.

AIVA's manageable size was also a selection criterion.

These initial positive impressions were quickly confirmed during the first few days of training: high-quality instructors, brand new premises, assistance and support with various administrative obligations as well as in the search for internships…

All of these elements have allowed me to maintain my current professional activity and calmly prepare for the future while acquiring a considerable amount of theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of wine through my internship.»

Clement

«After graduating from business school, I wanted to specialize in a sector that is dear to me, wine, through training that would allow me to learn as much as possible.

The school team was very accessible and attentive, a humane school just like the wine sector and its products.

The training lived up to my expectations; the secret? A concentrated dose of information that, while sometimes difficult to digest, is nonetheless invaluable. The preliminary courses greatly facilitate the transition to the internship, which comes in the second part.

A young wine school, with all the qualities needed to become a benchmark in its field.»

Nicolas

«"Very good training, we cover all the most important grape varieties with real expertise from the trainer.

We are fully immersed in the world of wine.»

Corentin

«"With a view to a career change (after obtaining a Master MEEF to become a primary school teacher) I wanted to follow a short and above all professionalizing course that would allow me to progress in the job market.

When I heard about AIVA, which offers a work-study program, I decided to pursue the Sommelier-Wine Merchant training, which corresponded to my vision of working in wine, being as close as possible to the wine and the customer, while making a direct link with the winemakers.

Being interested in the world of wine and spirits but lacking theoretical knowledge in the field, the training provided me with initial foundations that the internship allows me to develop and will allow me to develop further through practice.»

Ombline

«"As a former Army officer undergoing professional retraining, I decided to trust AIVA to quickly provide me with all the necessary tools for advising on and marketing wines, beers and spirits.

I particularly appreciated being trained by true professionals in the field, leading experts in their area, who are passionate about sharing their love of wine. During this training, I had the opportunity to participate in unique events such as the Mondial des Vins Blancs, where I helped the jury evaluate a significant number of wines.

AIVA also allowed me to expand my professional network, enabling me to quickly find job opportunities. Today, I am awaiting the signing of an employment contract with a prestigious wine distribution company that I met during a presentation at the Academy.»

Contact us

Ready to train you to the wine, beer and spirits industries?

Download the brochure, apply or come and meet us during an open day.

@ecoleaiva

The AIVA spirit, in pictures

Tasting courses, open days, graduation ceremonies: discover the daily life of the Academy.