Wine merchants are expecting demand for 2010 Bordeaux to be exceptionally high, based on early reviews from the barrel tastings.

According to experts talking to Expatica.com, the growing Chinese market will be demanding a large number of the finest Bordeaux wines, but chateaux have been warned against forgetting their long-standing customers.

Bordeaux merchant Philippe Tapie told the website: "The attraction of the Asian and Chinese markets is a terrific engine, unique.

"Nevertheless, one must not neglect and get cut off from traditional and historical markets."

Mr Tapie is optimistic about the campaign, however, noting that the quality of 2010 Bordeaux is "exceptional" due to "colossal" investments in the winemaking process.

Wine expert James Lawther told Decanter this week that the 2010 Bordeaux from the Right Bank is actually fresher than the much-heralded 2009 vintage.

He explained that the 2010s have an acidity that the 2009s do not and should age better.