I rest my case...

[grapeobserver]

I share the sentiment, but I think the impact of WET tax and GST shouldn't be underestimated. My understanding is that (very broadly, exceptions apply, circumstances differ etc), it's a 29% rate applied to a wholesale price + GST is then added at 10% onto the WET inclusive price. This adds up and it seems that exports from Australia, as I understand it, are exempt from both WET and GST. So therefore the starting comparison doesn't seem even (subject of course to whatever foreign country taxes might apply - they seemed pretty high in the UK from memory whereas France always seemed half price - the grass is always greener somewhere perhaps). So, the "Australia tax" may exist, but the above actual taxes (or absence thereof for exports) I expect don't help.

[JamieBahrain]

Great - thats useful to know! It was not something I had even considered possible.

I have not seen much Penfolds about in the US. Although have not been looking for it. The discrepancy I see on pricing of Italian wines is pretty big though - even with the AUD dropping against the USD recently - in many cases half the price of what they are in Australia.

I buy a lot of Italians. Savings are a lazy 50% with ease. If you use an importer or have the Italian tax removed at the airport you will see a $50AUD Italian at around $160+ in Oz. Just bought a heap of Cavallotto Barolo Riservas and this was the case!

TRS is a fantastic way to get great prices on Aussies and make them competitive with the rest of the world. Example being Basket press around $30USD is excellent! For the most part, I find Australian wines too expensive abroad, the savings should be greater.

[felixp]

Jamie, you paid $60 for the Cavalotto's?? wow
mags of the 2001 riserva were being "offered" by an upmarket shop in Melbourne for $350 this June

[Mark Carrington]

To put your mind at rest, Travis, I have embargoed Penfolds. As sbserved above, they have transported their cynical pricing strategy to Blighty. For example, they're asking £50 for 389 '10, which whilst excellent ain't worth the money. Of course, market forces push back & retailers are obliged to discount. As a shameless bottom feeder, I feel duty bound take advantage.

[JamieBahrain]

felix

Trick being to get export price. That's where removing 22% Italian tax and getting to tax free HKG will see you buy well. If you find 2010 go for it!

Really enjoyed a recent visit I'm trying to find time to finish a write up I'll post here.

[sjw_11]

Hi Sam....have you stopped buying Oz wine now you're in UK?

Yep!

Or at least, I am not buying them here in the UK! Still have bought a few things for the cellar (generally reds from the strong 2010 and 2012 vintages for longer cellaring).