Academy of Wine & Spirits
The Academy of Wine and Spirits is a premier provider of internationally accredited wine, spirits, and hospitality education throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. With over 25 years of experience in professional training, we offer CPD-certified qualifications that are globally recognized and designed to meet the highest standards in the industry.
We deliver expertly curated programs for wine enthusiasts, sommeliers, wine merchants, beverage professionals, and anyone driven to deepen their understanding. Our approach is direct, honest, and grounded in real-world application. From food and wine pairing to vintage wine tastings, gin explorations, and corporate or private events, we provide education that excites, informs, and elevates.
We’re not just about qualifications — we’re about transformation. Over 93% of our corporate clients report better staff retention, engagement, and performance after investing in our training. That’s not just impact — that’s results.
Christian Esser, founder and lead educator at the Academy of Wine and Spirits, brings over 15 years of experience across Europe, the Caribbean, and the Americas. With a background in viticulture and a deep-rooted passion for hospitality, Christian has worked as a sommelier, consultant, and educator, shaping wine programs, enhancing service standards, and building beverage knowledge across top-tier establishments. His specialties include Northern Hemisphere wine regions, Pinot Noir, and rare educator certifications in Sake, Scotch Whisky, and Cognac. Now expanding into cheese education, Christian continues to push boundaries in beverage and gastronomy education.
Nicolas Ratkovich combines scientific precision with sensory mastery. Holding a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and formal training as a sommelier, Nicolas’s academic and professional background sets him apart. He holds advanced certifications in wines, spirits, and distillation — including the General Certificate in Distillation from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling (UK), a Diploma in Rum and Spirits from Andres Bello Catholic University (Venezuela), and a Cachaça production course from the Federal University of Lavras (Brazil). His unique blend of technical and practical expertise makes him an exceptional educator for students eager to master the complexities of production and tasting.
