Emirates is further enhancing its attractiveness to wine lovers by turning its cabin crew into wine experts.
The Dubai airline has launched a series of bespoke wine courses for cabin crew, under the name L’art du Vin.
Taking place in a dedicated classroom that replicates a high-end lounge, there are three intensive wine courses tailored to varying levels of knowledge – L’art du vin Introduction, L’art du vin – Business Class and L’art du vin – First Class.
As part of Emirates’ dedication to innovation and nurturing talent, participants receive a certificate of achievement after completing their course and the opportunity to apply for the next level during their career with Emirates.
L’art du vin courses are spearheaded by a select group of cabin crew members identified as wine ambassadors, each having earned the official WSET Level 2 and 3 certifications from The Wine & Spirit Education Trust.
Each level of L’art du vin is designed to support varying levels of knowledge and experience. The L’art du vin introduction course is targeted towards Emirates’ newly recruited cabin crew and covers Emirates’ investment into wine, facts about wine and the wine-making process, white and red wine tasting, introduction to sparkling wines, how best to recommend wines and facilitates pouring techniques.
L’art du vin – Business Class takes the initial learning experience to a new level, for more experienced cabin crew.
L’art du vin – First Class builds on the foundational knowledge acquired in Business Class and offers a deep dive into the world of Premier and Grand Cru Classè wines. This advanced course focuses on the prestigious 1855 Bordeaux classification, with detailed study sessions on premier cru class estates such as Château Cos d’Estournel 2006 from St. Estèphe, alongside the Grand Cru vineyards of Burgundy, including the illustrious Bâtard-Montrachet 2013 from Louis Latour.
Cabin crew will gain expertise in the top producers from Spain, like Vega Sicilia Unico 2006 from Ribera del Duero and Italy’s Ornellaia 2012 from Bolgheri, Tuscany. The training also covers California’s Opus One 2012 from Napa Valley, ensuring a well-rounded knowledge of world-class wines. The programme also provides an in-depth introduction to Dom Pérignon Champagne, Château d’Yquem Sauternes, and aged vintage ports from renowned houses such as Graham’s, Dow’s, and Sandeman.
