Akevitt Lys from Germany
Akevitt Lys is a clear, unaged Danish aquavit with bold caraway and dill notes, distilled to about 40% ABV. Classified under HTS 2208.90.0100 specifically for aquavit, meeting the criteria for caraway-flavored spirits under 80% vol. Its purity and traditional production method define its tariff placement.
Duty Rate — Germany → United States
10%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.3910%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92 and 9903.05.97, articles the product of a member state of the European Union, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 10 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Obtain prior TTB formula approval if custom blends are used, as aquavit flavors must match traditional profiles
• Use bonded warehouse entry for proof testing to defer duties until accurate ABV is confirmed
• Avoid common pitfalls like incorrect proof gallon declarations, which trigger audits and penalties