PARIS (Reuters) - France's Trade Ministry on Wednesday condemned China's move to open an anti-dumping probe on European wine imports, saying the move was inappropriate, and warning that France would defend its producers.

"We're taking this very seriously," said a ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"The way this was presented seems to us inappropriate and reprehensible," the official added, adding that Paris would be in touch with the European Commission, which is responsible for Europe's trade policy.