The toast that appears during the summit dinner is not just a simple drink but a synthesis of diplomatic messages. It conveys meanings of friendship and goodwill, and also communicates tasks that need to be resolved diplomatically.
In 2019, French President Emmanuel Macron had dinner with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the 2nd China International Import Expo held in Shanghai. The toast chosen for the dinner was 'Chateau Corton Grancey Grand Cru' from Louis Latour, a representative wine producer from the Burgundy region.
At that time, it was about a year after the outbreak of the U.S.-China trade conflict. China was using the international import expo as a platform to showcase its power and a way out of the crisis. Particularly, China was eager to strengthen its relationship with France among major Western countries, making President Macron's visit to China noteworthy.
In this context, the wine from Louis Latour that served as the toast not only elevated the brand's reputation but also contributed to promoting the excellence of French wine on the international stage. President Macron received a 'gift package' worth $15 billion after his state visit to China. He secured promises for aircraft purchases from Airbus in China, collaboration in aircraft engine development between the two nations, and broad cooperation in agriculture.
◇ A representative winery of Burgundy with a 200-year tradition
Louis Latour is a representative wine from the Burgundy region, primarily imported by Ayung FBC in South Korea. At a press briefing held on the 13th at the restaurant 'Moie' in Jung-gu, Seoul, Bruno Pepin, sales and marketing director of Louis Latour, said, 'Louis Latour produces wines across 84 classifications from entry-level to Grand Cru, with over 100 varieties available.'
Founded in 1797, the Louis Latour winery has been family-owned for over 200 years across 11 generations. It is known as the largest owner of Grand Cru vineyards on the Corton hill and is recognized as a producer representing the tradition and quality of Burgundy wine.
The Burgundy region experiences relatively warm summers (July to August) without excessive heat, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. In winter (December), average temperatures can drop to minus 13°C, and snowfall occurs, enabling the vines to enter a dormancy period that prepares them for healthy growth in the following year.
These climatic conditions allow the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties to achieve optimal maturation. Adequate sunlight maintains the acidity and richness of the grapes, playing a crucial role in forming the elegant structure and complex aromas unique to Burgundy wine.
◇ Burgundy wine with balance and elegance
At the meeting, attendees could taste white wines including Chablis 2023 and Pouilly-Fuissé 2020, along with red wines such as Pinot Noir 2020, Aloxe-Corton 2022, and Chateau Corton Grancey Grand Cru 2017.
Chablis is known as a wine favored by Jennie, a member of the idol group BLACKPINK. She even shared on her social media account about visiting a winery in the Chablis region.
Both Chablis and Pouilly-Fuissé are made from the Chardonnay variety, but the different soil characteristics of the two regions give a completely different feel. Chablis is characterized by a mineral aroma and a refreshing, clean taste, while Pouilly-Fuissé offers a creamy and rich fruit scent.
Director Pepin noted, 'The Chablis region is at the northern end of Burgundy, while the Pouilly-Fuissé region is at the southern end. Chablis has chalky soil, allowing for the production of fresh and delicate wines, while Pouilly-Fuissé has a unique soil combination of limestone and mineral clay, resulting in richer wines.' He explained that the grape harvest timing differs by about a week.
Pinot Noir 2020 is considered a reasonable entry-level wine. It boasts a balance of fresh fruit aromas and soft tannins. Aloxe-Corton 2022 features well-ripened cherry and rich licorice aromas. Director Pepin remarked, 'Aloxe-Corton is where Louis Latour originated, so it holds a special place for me.' Chateau Corton Grancey Grand Cru 2017 exhibits a harmonious blend of diverse aromas, including strawberry and floral notes.
Louis Latour is recognized for its pioneering role in expanding the scope of Burgundy wines by constantly embracing new challenges in regions such as Aleshn, Chablis, and Beaujolais. It is also known for producing traditional French oak barrels for its use. Famous wineries often purchase Louis Latour's oak barrels.
Director Pepin stated, 'Many believe that Louis Latour wines pair well with luxury and French cuisine, but they actually complement any food from various countries. I hope consumers can shed preconceived notions and enjoy them universally.'