The threat of massive tariffs on EU wine has already caused some importers to pause shipments. The proposed tariffs, framed as a response to EU whiskey duties, could devastate the US wine industry if they become permanent.
Europe recently pushed back its whiskey tariffs by 12 days, emphasizing its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. Meanwhile, the US Wine Trade Alliance urged members to halt all EU wine shipments, including Skurnik Wines & Spirits, a major importer.
USWTA President Ben Aneff believes that the US Trade Representative now understands the domestic impact of wine tariffs, which was not the case in 2019 when 25% tariffs were imposed. The US three-tier system of alcohol distribution means that most of the revenue from EU wine imports goes to small businesses in the US.
However, the domestic wine industry disagrees with President Trump’s claim that tariffs would benefit the industry. The Wine Institute and National Association of American Wineries argue that tariffs will hurt farmers, vintners, distributors, retailers, and millions of people in the extended wine supply chain.
Smaller companies cannot afford to pay a 200% tariff when shipments arrive, which means they could go out of business. In 2019, multiple distributors went out of business due to previous wine tariffs.
The US wine import industry spent $6.8 billion on imports in 2024, with 80% going to EU producers. If tariffs were to bring that number near zero, it would have devastating consequences for the entire supply chain.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/03/21/trump-wine-tariffs-europe