A Chinese billionaire is feared dead in a helicopter crash that occurred as he was surveying his newly-purchased vineyard.
James Gregoire, second from left, and Lam Kok pictured with their wives. Photo: AFP
The helicopter carrying Hong Kong-based tycoon Lam Kok, his 12-year-old son, the chateau's ex-owner James Gregoire and an interpreter came down in the river Dordogne.
Searchers found the body of the child but not all missing passengers had been located.
The BBC reports the sale of the Bordeaux vineyard had received much local publicity.
It was believed to be the biggest investment yet by a Chinese businessman in the Bordeaux wine region.
The 46-year-old Hong Kong-based tycoon, who specialises in fine teas, had plans to turn the 160-acre estate into a tea and wine tasting centre.
After the introductions and a news conference, the former owner James Gregoire offered to give Lam Kok an aerial tour of the estate by helicopter.
An AFP photographer at the event said Mr Kok's wife pulled out at the last moment, saying she was "scared of helicopters".
