Brazil seems to be following China in developing a taste for fine wine, according to one New York-based store owner, who said tourist from Latin America's largest economy are not shy of buying bottles for $1,000 (£646).

Speaking to Bloomberg, Ana Paula Galvani of the Sherry-Lehmann wine shop said she sold 30 cases of 2009 Bordeaux futures in just two weeks, many of which went to Brazilian customers.

She has been selling 12-bottle cases of chateau Margaux Grand Cru Classe Premiere for $15,540 (£10,030), but Brazil's wealthy do not seem deterred by the prices.

"It is fashionable to drink wine in Brazil now, and the real is strong," she told the news provider.

"They want certain labels in their cellars, certain wines to offer to friends."

In China, the Bordeaux of choice is often Lafite - to the extent that the wine has almost become the recognised brand of choice for entertaining business clients.