Christian Brothers VS Brandy from Japan
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 — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
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