Frenchman's wine journey a grape tale

From a market perspective, Nauleau also observed the growing curiosity among young Chinese consumers, spurring the development of the domestic wine industry.

Beyond the world of winemaking, Nauleau has embraced China's rich culture, cuisine and natural beauty. He learned Chinese, met and married a woman from Xinjiang.

His travels with his family have allowed him to explore stunning landscapes like Xinjiang's Jiangbulake Grassland, Tianchi Lake in the Tianshan Mountains and the Lavender Garden in Ili, and savor local delicacies.

"Xinjiang is also diverse in terms of humanities, although we're not from the same country, we get along like family. "

This world requires diversity and harmony, and it is equally important in the wine industry, he said.

Nauleau said he is impressed by China's remarkable development, from its rapid economic growth and convenient transportation to its embrace of intelligent technology and smart agriculture.

"This series of changes has allowed me to see an open, prosperous and rapidly developing China."

Moreover, the Belt and Road Initiative has further strengthened global cooperation and exchanges between China and other countries, he said, adding that international expos and events have been held in Xinjiang to promote the region's economic development and connection with the world.

In May, the Belt and Road International Wine and Spirit Competition was held in Changji, Xinjiang, and global wine experts from more than a dozen countries including France, the United States and Italy visited his winery.

"These activities are becoming increasingly international, which is very conducive to promoting cooperation and development," he said.

China and France have also developed close ties due to the development of wine, he said.

In a joint statement issued during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to China in April, France supported China's accession to the International Vine and Wine Organization and the hosting of the International Grape and Wine Industry Conference.

It marks deeper exchanges and cooperation between China and France in the wine industry, Nauleau said, adding that it is also the result of long-term exchanges and mutual learning between the two countries.