Flying with Wine

While drinking wine in Napa, Burgundy, Argentina, Rioja, or another of the many wine regions blessed by amazing terroir, you are likely thinking 'how do I get some of this vino home?' Do I have to check wine for a flight? If so, are there limits or regulations? Are taxes due on the wine if I am flying internationally? Can I protect my bottles from breaking during the flight?

1. Individually wrap each bottle thoroughly in heavy clothing you’ve packed, like jeans or sweaters. (I usually try to slip the bottle in a bread bag or other plastic bag that I can tie off in case of breakage.
2. Use a wine-shipper box with foam inserts to check your case of wine. (DON’T check in a standard distributor cardboard crate of wine.)
3. Invest in a VinGardeValise12-Bottle Wine Travel Suitcase
4. Get a reusable WineSkin Bag - or similar product that will add additional padding to the bottle.
5. According to the TSA — remember they only handle airport security and the regulation of continental travel — you can travel with an unlimited amount of alcohol in your checked bag as long as each bottle is under 24% alcohol by volume, which has wine covered, and fits within the airline’s weight regulations.
6. Mini bottles of alcohol in carry-on must be able to comfortably fit into a single quart-sized bag.
7. DON’T try to take your wine bottles in your carry on baggage, they will not allow it through security
8. Consider Direct Shipping - Due to air travel regulations, many wineries have taken on the responsibility of facilitating direct to consumer transport themselves through a variety of methods. Just ask the attendant at the tasting room, when considering your purchase.

Alcoholic beverages with less than 24% alcohol – no US Gov. restrictions for import for personal use.

Bonus - Look into the Alaska Airlines Wine Flies Free Program if visiting the U.S. West Coast.