Abdullah H Simon, a wine importer famed for promoting Bordeaux wines such as Lafleur and Le Pin, has died at the age of 88.

The distinguished founder of Seagram Chateau and Estates Wine Company, who was awarded the Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur in France's Bastille Day Honours List, passed away on New Year's Day.

During his long career, Mr Simon gained his reputation by stoking the US' enthusiasm for Bordeaux wines, with New York Times columnist Frank J Prial remarking in 1988 that he was responsible for 30 per cent of the French wine imported into the country.

He was also closely involved with a number of philanthropic causes, particularly in Israel, where he worked with the Tel Aviv Foundation and Hebrew University.

"Ab Simon was a brilliant star in the wine sky," said Marvin R Shanken, editor of Wine Spectator.

"More than that, he was kind, intelligent and the epitome of goodness. He will be greatly missed."