Should I ship back wine from Paris?

Question

I'm going to Paris in March and am wondering if it'll be worthwhile to ship back a case of wine? I'd probably go up to $50 a bottle ($600/case) and shipping would probably be around $150 (that's what it was to ship back some brunnelos from Tuscany). Given that I can't carry wine in a handcarry on a plane anymore and given that I wouldn't put it in baggage, do you think it's worthwhile to ship it? I know it probably depends on how much I like wine and how much money I have to spend. But what would YOU do?

Answer 1

To ship wines back to the USA is possible, but will involve you in a lot of effort. Much depends on where you are; you will probably need to go to the airport personally and liaise with customs officials in order to collect your shipment.

It was never easy shipping wine into the USA, there are not only federal laws but each state has its own laws on top. But since 9/11 there have been a raft of new laws including bio-chemical restrictions that basically mean each imported wine has to be certified as safe (I am paraphrasing).

If I were you, I'd get one of those cardboard boxes with polystyrene inserts used for shipping wine and take it with you. Fill it with 12 bottles and check it in with you. Yes, you'll have to declare it to US customs on arrival and you may have to pay some taxes, but it'll be a lot easier and an enormous amount cheaper than shipping it separately.

Those boxes are robust, no harm will come to it in the hold. I have done this on long haul flights between Europe and the USA and South Africa several times without any problem.

If you are set on shipping it separately, I suggest you call the customs people at the US arrival airport BEFORE you go and check the procedures you'll need to follow.

Answer 2

I would do it in a heart beat. Check for wines you can't find where you live or vintages that didn't make it this far. Take a vintage chart so you can assess your purchases.

"French wines a rip off" OMG
I love old world style wines, they are not so in your face fruity and hot as new world wines (California, Australia, and Chile) which I also enjoy. Enjoy your trip, and definitely bring back some liquid souvenirs.

I think natureboy is referring to Alsace, France.

Answer 3

I would ship it without hesitation, just plan on cellaring it ,at 50 a bottle you will be buying pretty young wine,I got a great price on a case of barolo when in Peidmont and had it shipped and all went well and I have no regrets.

Answer 4

I think you can find wines in Napa, CA that will equal any French wine.

Except of course in age. French have been doing it longer and therefore have older vintages. But then, if you were looking to spend $50/bottle, you're not going to be buying a 10+ year old wine anyway.

Answer 5

No. It would be very poor value. French wines are often rip offs, especially if bought in Paris. A decent local wine shipper will be able to offer a good choice and a reasonable price. Best value in French wines are the Alsatian ones - Pinot Gris, Muscat, Gewurztraminer. Enjoy!

Answer 6

In my opinion I think you should enjoy the Parisien lifestyle along with the french wine while your in Paris. BBring back maybe a bottle two tops. You can always find an exquisite California wine right here in the US.

Answer 7

if i were purchasing wine that is intended for home and i lived abroad, shipping it would be the probable choice, less chance of it being lost in the luggage but i think i might find a recipient address different than my residence so as to take advantage of a bulk shipping fee which is probably less and might be handled with more care.

Answer 8

What I do is bring an extra, small, well padded suitcase. I wrap each bottle in lots bubblewrap and fill all remaining space tightly with newspaper and cardboard. I check the bag. Never have experienced any breakage.