China and France are celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations.
As part of the commemoration, CGTN explores the story of Christelle Chene, a French winemaker contributing to the global recognition of Chinese wines.
Born in Burgundy, France, renowned for its wine region, Christelle chose to stay in China, emphasising the promotion of local brands.
As the International Affairs Director at Xige Estate in northwest Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Christelle collaborates with founder Zhang Yanzhi to elevate Chinese wines on the international stage.
WATCH: Making Chinese wines go global
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Christelle Chene shares her journey and passion for wine.
Having studied Chinese language and history, she spent almost 13 years working in China’s wine industry and is now a worldwide brand ambassador for Xige Estate.
Christelle’s transition to China was facilitated by her previous job, where her main client, Zhang Yanzhi, eventually became her current boss.
Reflecting on Xige Estate’s wine products, Christelle showcases the various offerings they have rolled out.
Zhang Yanzhi, the founder of Xige Estate, speaks in Chinese about his winemaking background, having studied in Bordeaux, France. He emphasiSes the importance of someone like Christelle, who can articulate the story of Chinese wine in an international language.
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Christelle shares her excitement about joining Xige Estate in Ningxia to promote Chinese wine. She notes the significant changes in the Chinese wine industry over the past 13 years and underscores the need for experienced individuals in sales and marketing to build and promote brands.
Zhang Yanzhi praises Christelle’s role in telling the story of Chinese wine in an international language, using her French perspective and pure wine language from Burgundy to describe the terroir and natural environment in which Chinese wine is made.
Christelle draws parallels between Chinese and French cultures, especially in their shared appreciation for food, wine, friends, and family. She expresses her love for Chinese food and the friendly, welcoming nature of the people.
She believes that the commonality in making friends and doing business around the table contributes to the enduring friendship between China and France.
Zhang Yanzhi highlights the deep connection between China and France, emphasising that cultural commonalities foster friendship and mutual support.
Christelle concludes by stating that she has found her family and friends in China, expressing no plans of leaving anytime soon. She envisions being in China forever.
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