Chinese wine enthusiasts that are developing a passion for fine Bordeaux wine are following the example set by the country's government.

According to Tony Lee, sales representative for Chinese importer Zhuhai FrenChina Wine and Spirits Corp, the country's government is putting on banquets with business leaders with red Bordeaux featuring heavily.

Speaking to the Globe and Mail, Mr Lee said that business leaders then follow this lead, and the example passes through to the masses.

"People only understand Bordeaux. From the newspapers, from movies, people understand wine is from France, and the best wine area in France is Bordeaux," he told the newspaper.

China's growing passion for Bordeaux wine was again highlighted by Wine Spectator earlier this month.

The publication's latest data shows that Hong Kong is the premier market for Bordeaux auctions, generating revenue of £33.7 million in the first quarter of 2011, compared to the £19.7 million taken at US sales during this time.