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

Maximilien

«At 18, I left my province determined to seize life…”

Venturing into the heart of Alsace, I found myself at AIVA, a young wine and sommelier enthusiast. With its many speakers and instructors, I was able to greatly expand my knowledge, both on paper and in the glass. I even discovered a passion for beer with Hervé Marziou, whom I thank immensely for his classes and his kindness. The same goes for Simon Cadoret, Yvan Gerber, and many others! A school for enthusiasts, by enthusiasts!

Having completed an internship in the French capital, I now find myself in an independent wine cellar in the heart of Montmartre, at the foot of the Sacré Cœur!

«"With a light heart and minimal luggage, I was certain I would conquer Paris!"»

With these words from Charles Aznavour,

Maximilien Decaesteker, Advanced Diploma in Sommelier Studies, Wine Merchant & Beer Expertise»

Quentin

Chloe

«"To summarize my year at AIVA, I would say that it was very enriching, having originally studied in the hotel and restaurant industry, I had a basic knowledge of wine and AIVA really allowed me to deepen these basics.

The main advantage of the Bachelor's degree is its diversity, as upon completion, graduates can pursue any career related to wine (sommelier in a restaurant, wine merchant, sales representative at a winery, import-export sales representative, etc.). What I also greatly appreciated about AIVA was the quality of the instructors, all professionals who are genuinely passionate about sharing their knowledge and who take the time to answer all questions.

This training program truly met my expectations and I highly recommend it to future students.»

Virginia

«"An enriching day that makes me want to move on to level 2!"»

Jeremy

«"An enriching year of sharing, both technically and personally.

This year I completed the dual degree program at AIVA, with a view to a career change. Indeed, having already earned a degree in business and marketing, my wish was to find a fulfilling path in sales within the wine, beer and spirits industry.

The meeting and exchanges with all the professionals who guided and structured this course, as well as sharing with my classmates from all backgrounds, gave me a lot of meaning and determination.

Having completed this training, I now feel more confident and prepared to pursue my professional life in the wine industry.»

Mathieu

«A very well-conducted training session led by instructor “El Prof” Diego. For someone like me who came for pleasure and with the aim of increasing my knowledge, the comfortable atmosphere and pleasant, friendly environment contributed to the success.”.

A very good balance between basic techniques and a broader perspective.»

Valentin

«"In order to continue my initially technical studies in the field of wine, I turned to AIVA which offers a professionalizing pedagogy.

Indeed, the internship provides a complete immersion in the profession, and the training is supervised by professionals from the wine industry. You learn a great deal in a friendly yet professional atmosphere.»

Theo

«"AIVA is a large school on a human scale, created by enthusiasts for enthusiasts.

A comprehensive and enriching training program in a cutting-edge setting. It truly prepares us for the workplace through an approach based on tasting and practical application.

Who can hope to talk about wine without tasting it?»

Philippe

«"Interesting, informative, and exactly what I expected, all delivered by a top-notch instructor – I highly recommend it!"»

Baptistin

«"Having undergone a career change and having been passionate about wine for many years, I wanted to train in a school to have a solid foundation in wines and spirits.

The initial discussions with Mr. Destouches and Mr. Gerber were reassuring and precise regarding the purpose of the school and the objectives to be achieved.

Challenge accomplished: the courses led by professors from the professional field are exciting and comprehensive, tastings are daily; After a speech, nothing beats practice!

If you are passionate, curious, and looking for a dynamic learning experience to acquire a profession in the wine industry, AIVA is for you!»

Valentin

Emilie

«"As a current student, I am very satisfied with the Academy, both with the courses, the tastings, the availability of the support team, the various events organized and the friendly atmosphere.

Everyone's dedication is evident; even the smallest question is answered in record time. It would be hard to find a more pleasant and motivating place to study the world of wine.»

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.