Each AIVA cohort is sponsored by an exceptional figure from the world of wine. Renowned winemakers, owners of grand cru vineyards, award-winning sommeliers: these mentors support the students, pass on their passion, and open the doors of the industry to them.
The sponsors of the International Wine Academy are women and men with exceptional professional backgrounds. Students have the opportunity to be mentored by such prominent figures in the wine world during their studies at the Academy.
GÉRARD BERTRAND, EXCELLENCE AS HORIZON
Gérard Bertrand. Visionary entrepreneur, committed winemaker, and ambassador of French wines throughout the world. Patron for 2026, he embodies success, the passing on of knowledge, and the ability to promote a terroir far beyond its borders.
CAROL DUVAL-LEROY, FIRST WOMAN PRESIDENT OF A CHAMPAGNE HOUSE
Carol Duval-Leroy. A pioneer in the promotion of high-precision Chardonnay. Godmother for 2025, she symbolizes the transmission, elegance, and strength of a commitment to serving great terroirs.
FLORENCE CATHIARD, PIONEER OF WINE TOURISM
Florence Cathiard. Owner of the prestigious Grand Cru Classé Château Smith Haut Lafitte. An emblematic figure in the world of wine and president of the Higher Council for Wine Tourism.
MICHEL CHAPOUTIER, AN EMBLEMATIC FIGURE OF THE RHÔNE VALLEY
Michel Chapoutier. Unconventional, curious about everything. Michel Chapoutier is not a static mind. He is a vibrant individual. An exceptional winemaker.
BERNARD MAGREZ, THE MAN WITH 42 VINEYARDS
Bernard Magrez. Owner of 42 vineyards worldwide, including 4 Grands Crus Classés in Bordeaux. A leading figure in the world of wine.
SILVIO DENZ, OWNER OF CHÂTEAU LAFAURIE-PEYRAGUEY AND THE LALIQUE CRYSTAL WORKS
Silvio Denz. An exceptional entrepreneur in the fields of art, perfumery, and wine. Today, owner of prestigious castles, Silvio Denz is a model of success.
SERGE DUBS, BEST SOMMELIER IN THE WORLD
Serge Dubs. A name that evokes supremacy in the world of sommellerie. Best Sommelier of France in 1983, of Europe in 1988, then of the World in 1989, Serge Dubs has nothing left to prove.
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Tasting courses, open days, graduation ceremonies: discover the daily life of the Academy.
