Chinese firm takes stake in Bordeaux vineyardA Chinese firm has taken a majority stake in a Bordeaux vineyard vineyard, land on which cultivation of the grape—known as viticulture—takes place. As many as 40 varieties of grape, Vitis vinifera, are known. , the latest move by the emerging Asian giant into the world of French wine, a company who advised on the deal said Sunday. HongKong A and A International, a holding company, paid an undisclosed sum for the stake in Chateau Richelieu, at a property once owned by infamous in·fa·mous adj. 1. Having an exceedingly bad reputation; notorious. 2. Causing or deserving infamy; heinous: an infamous deed. 3. Law a. French statesman Cardinal de Richelieu. Chateau Richelieu, in the southwestern French region famed for its high-class wines, is a 17-hectare property surrounded by 14 hectares of vines. It was previously owned by Dutchman Arjen Pen and 17 other shareholders of different nationalities. MK Finance, a company which advised HongKong A and A in its investment, said the Chinese group aimed to strengthen the vineyard's presence in the burgeoning Asian market. In 2008, exports of Bordeaux wine to China jumped 60 percent, with a turnover of 53 million euros (78 million dollars), according to according to prep. 1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians. 2. In keeping with: according to instructions. 3. Bordeaux's wine producers' association. Chateau Richelieu exports 90 percent of its wine abroad, to countries including England, Germany, Japan and the United States United States, officially United States of America, republic (2005 est. pop. 295,734,000), 3,539,227 sq mi (9,166,598 sq km), North America. The United States is the world's third largest country in population and the fourth largest country in area. . The Chinese company has previously specialised Adj. 1. specialised - developed or designed for a special activity or function; "a specialized tool" specialized specific - (sometimes followed by `to') applying to or characterized by or distinguishing something particular or special or unique; "rules with in the areas of golf, property and luxury clothing. MK Finance said in a statement: "In order to respond to strong Chinese demand for French wine, and particularly of Bordeaux wine, Chateau Richelieu decided to forge an Asian partnership with the aim of distributing top of the range produce." The development marks the second foothold foot·hold n. 1. A place providing support for the foot in climbing or standing. 2. A firm or secure position that provides a base for further advancement. foothold Noun 1. gained by a Chinese firm in the French wine industry, after the purchase in January 2008 by property group Longhai International Trading of Chateau Latour-Laguens, also for an undisclosed sum. 
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