I’m French, and I don’t drink (only) Bordeaux

In Cambodia, a foreigner, no matter where he’s from, is called a "Barang", which in Khmer means a “French”.

Vietnamese use the word “Bordeaux” for wine, in general.

Due to the French heritage, a lot of associations of this kind are done in the region.

In Asia, working in the world of wine and being French is a common combination.

Actually, it is normal to be French if you work in the wine business. You will always be taken seriously as Asians believe that any French should know about wine.

Well, it is far from being true.

What we know in France is what we like to drink. Most of the time, we actually drink the wines from our own region. You would hardly see a Bordelais drinking a glass of Chinon…

When you come to wine education and training in Asia, you’d better know about your products… as here, they want to know everything about it: what grape varieties? what is the exact blend? is it medium or full body? etc… I mean, at least for those who already have the basics.

Then you realize that being French is not really sufficient. And you start – step by step – to discover wines from Chile, New Zealand, Spain…and learn more about it… and enjoy it very much!

This is also at that stage that you become more demanding and tough towards your own favorite domestic beverages, as you understand more about the different styles of wine the world can give.

I think the French should come here, and (re) learn more about wine.

But don’t tell them I said that.