Hennessy VSOP Cognac from China
Hennessy VSOP is a premium grape brandy distilled from wine, aged in oak barrels for smoothness, with an alcoholic strength under 80% vol, packaged in 700ml bottles. It falls under HTS 2208.20.40.00 as grape brandy valued over $3.43/liter in containers under 4 liters. This classification applies to high-value brandy spirits from grape distillation.
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
• Obtain a Certificate of Label Approval (COLA) from TTB prior to importation and ensure all labeling meets FDA and TTB standards
• Calculate duties on proof liter basis; verify alcohol strength at 20°C and provide lab analysis if requested by CBP
• Avoid pitfalls like misvaluing containers—include all costs in valuation over $3.43/liter threshold