Could China produce world-class wines to compete with the best from countries such as Argentina, Australia, Chile, France and Spain?
That remained to be seen, said Robert Parker, a man whose wine ratings can make the market move.
Despite that cautious assessment, he said there may be some 'pretty special wines emerging from China'.
'I've never seen such a dramatic transformation of a country, their interest in wine. They're incredibly fast to pick up things, to learn, to immerse themselves,' Parker said.
'The interest and passion is an important factor in quality and in wine education. That already exists and has existed for some time in China. That's a good sign.'
The renowned US wine critic was speaking at Winefuture Hong Kong 2011, a gathering of respected figures in the wine industry being held at AsiaWorld-Expo until today.