CHINESE WINES THE NEXT BIG THING?

Although France held onto its #1 spot, it may have competition in years to come from China. Wine producer François Lurton has said he expects China to become the largest wine producing country in the world. Speaking at a tasting of the 2O1O Argentine vintages from Bodega François Lurton, Mendoza, the wine magnate said: “Bar China, I don’t see any new large wine producing countries at all. Speaking about climate, Lurton mentioned the peninsula of the province of Shandong and Shandong city of Qingdao. “China has great potential for vineyards and places like Qingdao (Tsingtao) have similar climates to Bordeaux.” However, when asked if he would consider buying land in China, Lurton replied: “The problem with working in China is joint ventures. There is great potential there but it is impossible to control.” Lurton added: “The Chinese are planting a lot and the quality isn’t there yet but it will be.” According to reports on the BBC, China could become the world’s largest wine producer in the next 5O years. That will be some interesting wine country.