Christian Brothers VS Brandy from China

Christian Brothers VS is a smooth grape brandy produced by distilling wine, with ABV less than 80%, sold in 1L bottles valued in the $2.38-$3.43/liter range. Classified under HTS 2208.20.30.00 for imported grape brandy in small containers meeting value criteria. Duties are calculated based on proof liters adjusted for actual alcohol content.

Duty Rate — China → United States

17.5%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)

Import Tips

Submit Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) formula approval and ensure containers hold ≤4L

Watch for value declaration accuracy to avoid reclassification

Pitfall: Forgetting temperature standardization at 20°C for ABV testing