Westvleteren XII (Possibly) Returning To U.S.

IF* it is being brought in without being purchased directly from the Abbey or without their agreement, that does not make it "illegal".

The so-called "grey market" Westvleteren that was commonly found on US shelves back in the late 1990's-early 2000's imported by D&V International - which had a Federal importers license - also have TTB COLAs and the labels followed US labeling requirements.


* Here's an interesting "hint" about the importer, Vinbrucke, (mostly a wine and spirits company but they also have a COLA from last September for CANTILLON FOU FOUNE ) - the rear label for a domestic whiskey they "reimport" from the UK:


(They also "reimport" Four Roses Bourbon, the TTB approved front label of which clearly says "FOR EXPORT FROM U.S.A.")

 

I agree with you there. I'm saying that it is unusual for an import to only have one state listed for recycling information.

 

The TTB doesn't explore the contractual relationships between producer and importer so I could very much see this happening.

Where this gets sketchy is the actual clearing of customs. When you have a shipment coming in you have to provide customs with an FDA Facilities Registration declaration. That declaration is filled out online either by the producer or an agent for the producer and it is a legal document saying that if there ever a problem with the product the FDA (at any time of day) can call someone and even get clearance to inspect the facility. So they either have an agreement with the Adbij in place or they may have a good lawyer that knows a loophole or they may be out of compliance.

 

Would not mind having another bottle or two.

Cheers!

 

That's really the story of anything competing at a world class level. The line is so fine between winning, or being considered the top, to being notched just below them. It doesn't take much to fall below that line either. For some, it's worth it to pursue the top-top, and others it's worth it to get the substitution. Kinda like picking up a trusted pitching star vs. a promising rookie or simply a trusty pitcher. Except you don't have to deal with the fallout if the rookie didn't pan out since you don't sign a multi-year contract to buy a beer.

I do enjoy trying those highly rated beers, but there simply isn't enough of a distinction between them for me to pursue the elusive beers. I do hope I can land a bottle of Westvleteren XII, but I won't be hurt if it totally skips over the Midwest.

 

If @DePinteImports is correct, then it's just backchannel shenanigans done without any direct relationship.