Comments on: Charles Carrard on wine distribution in China: Shifts, prospects, the “dumping ground” mindset, and more

By: Gary "Iron" Chevsky

Gary "Iron" Chevsky — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 18:42:09 +0000

Why do people think French wines are more expensive that new world wines? If we only think of the top wines, perhaps. But even new world wines from South America, Australia, California can now be extremely expensive. If you look at the value wines, say around $8-15, there is plenty of French wines from secondary areas, such as Languedoc-Rousillon or Entre-Deux-Mers or the Cotes de Bordeaux, and even some of the lesser appellations in Burgundy and Rhone, that are very affordable. The same big and fruity Cabernet Sauvignon that is brought in from South America, can be brought in from Languedoc. Have you tried wines of Louis Fabre? http://www.chevsky.com/2009/01/got-fabre.html

I think it all comes down to branding and PR, rather than what is really available or not. It may be easier to convince people that Chilean wines are inexpensive than to try to change their image of France. After all, once consumers grow up, the notion that French wines are expensive will play right into the hands of marketers.

By: Charles Carrard

Charles Carrard — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 10:59:12 +0000

[quote]Do you feel French wines are still an expensive commodity in China?[/quote]
Actually, there is a market for French wines, and there will always be, but the customers wil change and the products chosen also.
I mean, French wines under 100 RMB will be replaced by Chile wines or new world wines, but very expensive wines such as Grands Crus will still be successful

By: Daniel

Daniel — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 02:18:57 +0000

Well covered and written. It provides a clearer feel of the Chinese wine consumer drinking and spending habits which collates my observation during my stay in Shanghai.

Do you feel French wines are still an expensive commodity in China? The Italians are not far off from this tag too.

In general i feel the new world wines are still much cheaper, definitely below my 300 RMB spend range.

Cheers,
Daniel
http://www.jiuwine.com

By: Charles

Charles — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 04:51:33 +0000

Hi Tom,
We have been in China for about 10 years now, but it’s true we like to remain discret…

The name French Wine Paradox comes from the fact that there is a study which has been hold in a lot of countries and which showed that French people, whereas they drink a lot of wine, live longer than other non wine drinker people…
Why? Because they drink everyday 2 glasses of Wine.

Already Hypocrat showed the healthy properties of Wine long time ago..

So, drinking wine (with moderation) is a good way to remain healthy..