Nevertheless, the organisers claim the quality and the international profile of the visitors, was good. There were 2,350 exhibitors from 42 countries. They claim professionals from 151 countries – a new record.

Initial ranking of visitors from outside France (36% of the total)- sees China reinforcing its position at number one with a 14% increase, compared with 2013.

The US, designated 'Country of Honour' this year, takes second place with an increase of 14.5% in the number of buyers. Spain was third and Italy fourth.

Vinexpo believes visitor numbers were on a par with 2013. The number of French visitors showed a slight drop, compensated for by an increase of 2% in international visitors.

Vinexpo chairman Xavier de Eizaguirre and CEO Guillaume Deglise announced  that the 2017 Vinexpo will take place over four days from Monday to Thursday.

They also announced the dates of the next two Asian exhibitions. Vinexpo Hong Kong will take place from May 24 to May 26, 2016, while Vinexpo Tokyo will take place from November 15 to November 16, 2016.