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.
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.
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.
«After an artistic career followed by work in the restaurant industry, I wanted to specialize in the field of sommelierie. The AIVA school gave me the opportunity to undertake a short, yet high-quality, training course in the wine sector.
The theoretical input was substantial, and the internship allowed me to refine my knowledge and confirm my new career path.»
«"A very rich and intensive course that allows you to become familiar with wine! Diego is a very good teacher. Next step, the WSET 2!"»
«"After completing training in the hotel and restaurant industry, I wanted to specialize in wines and spirits.
That is why I wanted to join AIVA in order to increase my professional knowledge.
This course fully met my expectations, which were business and wine knowledge, and I am very happy about it! The teachers were always kind and professional.
I recommend this three-year post-secondary degree!»
«"A fascinating training course!"
A day full of discoveries in the field of wine: A beautiful approach to tasting.
A wonderful adventure that makes me want to deepen my knowledge and experience in the field of wine.»
«"An enriching day that makes me want to move on to level 2!"»
«"Wanting to start a career change in the wine industry, I looked for which establishments offered training courses that matched my project: to be a sommelier at home and to promote events around wine tourism.
AIVA perfectly met my requirements.
During the five months I spent in Alsace, I found there was a very good student atmosphere, despite some disadvantages due to the pandemic, exciting and competent professors, and very comprehensive, even encyclopedic, course materials.
Currently, I am putting the knowledge acquired in class to good use in the internships I am currently undertaking.
I am very satisfied with AIVA and wish it a long life.»
«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»
«After studying marketing and international business in Germany, enrolling at the International Wine Academy in Alsace seemed like the obvious next step. Choosing this program ensures you have all the knowledge and tools required to address the current challenges of the wine industry.”.
Almost all of the teaching offered is provided by professionals who themselves face the realities of the field on a daily basis.
I highly recommend this academy.»
«"The International Wine Academy is a young and brand new school with strong potential; due to its comprehensive training content, but also due to its trainers who passionately deliver all the knowledge they have learned previously in their professional careers.
First and foremost, you learn humility through the example of prominent figures like Bernard Magrez, the sponsor of the 2022-2023 graduating class. It's an immersive experience, delivered with passion, regardless of your background. The teaching staff is attentive throughout the six intensive months, as well as during the internship period.
A year of pure bliss, which allowed me to acquire deeper knowledge of wine tasting, customer relations, sales, legislation, and of course, the wine industry as a whole. I wholeheartedly recommend AIVA.
I thank the entire team for everything they have contributed to me and my graduating class.»
Download the brochure, apply or come and meet us during an open day.
Tasting courses, open days, graduation ceremonies: discover the daily life of the Academy.
