The BBC is carrying a story suggesting that the EU may rule that individuals could be able to order wine for home delivery direct from France (or elswhere in the EU) without paying UK duty and VAT.
To be fair this prospect has been raised before on numerous ocassions, but the UK Treasury has always managed to block such moves, and will doubtless resist this one given the amount of income from excise duty it stands to lose.
Of course, delivery charges are likely to outweigh savings on small quantities (although Pic Wines seem to be able to offer competitive prices including duty and delivery on their selection of Languedoc wines), but purchases of more than a couple of cases are likely to be significantly cheaper.
There are some downsides though - as it is likely to be the small independent UK merchants who will suffer most, with their more discerning and knowledgeable customers buying direct. This is likely to further reduce the choice available in the UK, especially of the more interesting small production wines.Cross-channel ferry fares would probably rise, as the "booze cruise market would disappear - although the ferry companies are reportedly looking at developing a delivery operation in response.
For others the opportunity to buy direct from a favourite chateau could be a very attractive option as long as the winemakers get their act together on delivery.
Personally I doubt it will ever happen, and if it results in the Chancellor increasing duty rates on commercial wine and spirit imports, then that would be a disaster.
