Low-Cost Bulk Cognac Base Spirit from China
Grape brandy spirit from wine distillation, <80% ABV, in large >4L containers valued ≤$2.38/L, used as base for aging into Cognac. Fits HTS 2208.20.5000 due to grape origin and bulk packaging not for immediate retail. Primarily imported for blending in premium brandy production.
Duty Rate — China → United States
20%
Rate breakdown
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)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Provide distillation origin documentation proving grape wine source; use Treasury-approved proof testing at 15.56°C
• Avoid valuation errors by excluding aging costs; pitfall is incorrect proof liter adjustment for duty