US Liquor Import Market: Top Liquor Importers in the USA

Explore the US liquor import market worth $12.10B in 2024. Discover top alcohol importers & buyers in US, trends & insights on importing liquor to USA.

US TRADE INFOGRAPHICS May 8, 2025 0 5897 Add to Reading List

US Liquor Import Market: Top Liquor Importers in the USA

The United States is one of the largest markets for liquor imports in the world. With a growing demand for a variety of spirits, the US liquor import market continues to thrive. According to the US import data and the USA liquor import data, the total value of US liquor imports reached $12.10 billion in 2024, an increase of 7% from the previous year.

Importing liquor to USA involves following strict federal and state regulations that govern how alcoholic beverages enter the country. Anyone importing alcohol to US must comply with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) rules, along with obtaining the necessary permits. When importing spirits into US, documentation such as certificates of origin and labeling approvals are required to ensure compliance. Many spirits importers specialize in bringing unique international brands to the American market, and becoming a licensed alcohol importer can open opportunities in the growing U.S. beverage industry.

There are 17000+ liquor importers & buyers in the United States, as per the US liquor shipment data. The US ranks as the number one liquor importer in the world. In this article, we will explore some of the top liquor importers in the USA, who play a significant role in bringing in popular and high-quality liquors from around the globe, with a key focus on the US liquor import data.

Overview of the US Liquor Import Market: How big is the US Liquor Market?

The US liquor import market is a highly competitive industry, with a wide range of imported spirits available to American consumers. From whiskey and vodka to tequila and rum, there is no shortage of options for those looking to enjoy a taste of international flavors in the market of US liquor distributors. The demand for imported liquors has been steadily increasing over the years, as consumers become more adventurous in their drinking choices. The projected revenue from liquor sales in the US Alcoholic Drinks market at home (such as in convenience stores and supermarkets) is $186.4 billion for 2025. In 2025, out-of-home revenue (such as that generated in bars and restaurants) totals $131.7 billion. The total forecasted US liquor market revenue for 2025 is $318.2 billion.

List of Top Liquor Import Companies in the US: USA Liquor Importers Database

The US Liquor Importers Database is a valuable resource for those seeking information on prominent liquor importers in the United States. This meticulously curated database on liquor importers USA provides an extensive list of top-tier companies involved in importing liquor, offering key insights into the industry's leading players. Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits leads the US liquor importers market. The top 10 US liquor importers, as per the US liquor importers data and buyers list for US alcohol imports in 2024-25, include:

Rank	Company Name	Approx. Import Value (2024)	Top Import Sources	Notes
1	Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits	$3.0 billion	Global (France, Italy, Mexico, Canada)	Largest U.S. distributor, operating in 47 states; represents over 1,500 brands.
2	Republic National Distributing Co.	$2.2 billion	Global (France, Italy, Mexico)	Second-largest U.S. distributor; operates in 16 states.
3	Diageo North America	$1.6 billion	Mexico (tequila), Scotland (whisky), Ireland (whiskey)	Leading global spirits producer; significant U.S. importer of tequila and whisky.
4	Shaw-Ross International Importers	$800 million	Europe, Asia, Latin America	Represents over 30 global suppliers; offers a diverse portfolio of wines and spirits.
5	Palm Bay International	$700 million	Italy, France, Argentina, Spain	Known for Italian wines; distributes products from 15 countries.
6	Winebow Group	$600 million	Italy, France, Spain, Portugal	Focuses on family-owned wineries; strong presence in fine wine imports.
7	Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits	$500 million	Australia, Italy, France	Family-owned importer; notable brands include Yellow Tail and Josh Cellars.
8	Skurnik Wines & Spirits	$400 million	France, Germany, Austria, Italy	New York-based importer; represents over 800 brands.
9	Cape Classics	$300 million	South Africa, France	Largest U.S. importer of South African wines; partners with major U.S. retailers.
10	Licores de México Inc.	$300 million	Mexico	Specializes in importing authentic Mexican spirits, including tequila and mezcal.

US Liquor Imports by Country: Top 10 US Liquor Import Partners

US Liquor Imports by Country showcase a significant aspect of the United States' beverage market, as per the data on US alcohol imports by country. Among the top 10 US Liquor Import Partners are familiar names like Mexico, France, and the United Kingdom, which supply liquor to the USA, highlighting the diverse range of countries contributing to the US liquor industry, as per the US shipment data. The top countries from which the US imports liquor, as per the US liquor import data by country and shipment data on US alcohol imports by country for 2024, include:

1. Mexico: $5.48 billion (45.4%)

Mexico tops the list as the largest liquor import partner for the United States, accounting for a significant 45.4% of total liquor imports. The proximity of Mexico to the US, coupled with the popularity of Mexican spirits such as tequila and mezcal, makes it a significant player in the US liquor market.

2. France: $2.16 billion (17.9%)

France is renowned for its high-quality wines and spirits, making it a key player in the US liquor import market. With $2.16 billion worth of liquor imported from France, it holds a substantial 17.9% share of the total US liquor import market, based on the data on US liquor imports from France.

3. United Kingdom: $1.87 billion (15.5%)

The United Kingdom is another major liquor import partner for the United States, with $1.87 billion worth of liquor imported annually. British whiskeys, gins, and other spirits are highly sought after in the US market, contributing to the UK's 15.5% share of US liquor imports.

4. Canada: $629.34 million (5.2%)

Canada may be known for its beer, but it also plays a significant role in the US liquor import market. With $629.34 million worth of liquor imported from Canada, it holds a respectable 5.2% share of total US liquor imports.

5. Netherlands: $379.02 million (3.1%)

The Netherlands is a key player in the US liquor import market, with $379.02 million worth of liquor imported annually. Dutch spirits such as gin and liqueurs are popular among US consumers, contributing to the Netherlands' 3.1% share of total US liquor imports.

6. Ireland: $351.84 million (2.9%)

Ireland may be best known for its whiskey, but it also plays a significant role in the US liquor import market. With $351.84 million worth of liquor imported from Ireland, it holds a notable 2.9% share of total US liquor imports.

7. Italy: $276.78 million (2.3%)

Italy is renowned for its wines and spirits, making it a key player in the US liquor import market. With $276.78 million worth of liquor imported from Italy$99.33 million, it holds a 2.3% share of total US liquor imports, as per the data on US liquor imports from Italy.

8. Sweden: $158.50 million (1.3%)

Sweden may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about liquor imports, but it plays a significant role in the US market. With $158.50 million worth of liquor imported from Sweden, it holds a 1.3% share of total US liquor imports.

9. Japan: $105.42 million (1%)

Japan may be more famous for its sake, but it also exports a significant amount of liquor to the United States. With $105.42 million worth of liquor imported from Japan, it holds a 1% share of total US liquor imports.

10. Germany: (0.9%)

Germany rounds out the top 10 US liquor import partners, with $99.33 million worth of liquor imported annually. German beers, wines, and spirits are popular in the US market, contributing to Germany's 0.9% share of total US liquor imports.

US Liquor Import Data in the Last 10 Years: Historical US Import Data

Year of Imports	US Liquor Import Value ($)
2014	$7.21 billion
2015	$7.38 billion
2016	$7.80 billion
2017	$7.98 billion
2018	$8.73 billion
2019	$9.53 billion
2020	$8.89 billion
2021	$10.68 billion
2022	$12.87 billion
2023	$11.32 billion
2024	$12.10 billion

Most Imported Liquor Varieties

Most Imported Liquor Varieties in the US (2024-25): US Liquor Import by Segment

The United States has seen a significant increase in liquor imports in 2024-25, with a notable focus on specific varieties dominating the market. The top 10 most imported liquor varieties into the US include premium tequila, single malt scotch, craft gin, barrel-aged rum, and Japanese whiskey, among others. This surge in imports showcases changing consumer preferences and a growing demand for diverse and high-quality spirits. The top Liquor varieties that the US imports, as per the US import shipment data and our liquor import database for 2024, include:

1. Tequila and Mezcal: $3.8 billion

Tequila and mezcal are the fastest-growing liquor imports into the U.S., making up the most valuable spirits category by import value in 2024. Tequila, made from blue agave, and mezcal, known for its smokier, artisanal flavor, are both exclusively produced in designated regions of Mexico. Their popularity has skyrocketed due to changing consumer preferences toward premium and craft spirits, driven by celebrity endorsements and cocktail culture. U.S. imports surged, especially due to a shift toward high-end sipping tequilas and premium margarita trends.

2. Whiskey: $2.3 billion

Whiskey imports include a wide range of subtypes such as Scotch (from Scotland), Irish whiskey, and Canadian whisky. Although volume growth has slightly plateaued, the premiumization of this category, especially in single malts and small-batch editions, has kept its import value high, as per the US whiskey import data. Scotch whisky, in particular, remains a staple in U.S. bars and households, while Irish whiskey continues to gain ground with smoother profiles appealing to new consumers.

3. Liqueurs and Cordials: $1.7 billion

This diverse category includes sweetened, flavored spirits like Baileys Irish Cream, Cointreau, Amaretto, and herbal liqueurs. These are essential in countless classic cocktails and dessert drinks. Their import value remains high due to holiday consumption, gift-giving trends, and their role in popular drinks like espresso martinis, margaritas, and creamy holiday beverages. Many premium brands from Europe dominate this segment, adding to the elevated value.

4. Brandy and Cognac: $1.5 billion

Brandy and its refined cousin, Cognac (which must be produced in France's Cognac region), are highly valued imports in the U.S. Hennessy, Rémy Martin, and Courvoisier are among the leaders. These spirits are often seen as luxurious, and their consumption is deeply rooted in U.S. urban and nightlife culture, as well as high-end dining. The aging process, regional exclusivity, and branding contribute to their premium price and high import value.

5. Vodka: $1.21 billion

Traditionally, the most consumed spirit in the US, vodka, continues to dominate by volume, as per the US vodka import data. France, the Netherlands, and Sweden are leading exporters. Its versatility in cocktails, neutral flavor, and availability across a broad price range help sustain strong import demand. While low-end vodka has declined, premium and flavored vodkas (like Grey Goose and Ketel One) keep the category resilient in value.

6. Rum: $1.2 billion

Rum imports encompass white, gold, dark, and spiced varieties, mostly originating from the Caribbean and Latin America, as per the USA rum import data. Despite a slight decline in overall volume, the category retains a strong presence due to its use in cocktails like mojitos and piña coladas. Spiced and flavored rums, along with craft and aged expressions, have helped sustain interest, especially among younger consumers and tiki bar enthusiasts.

7. Gin: $900 million

Gin imports have seen a revival thanks to the craft cocktail boom and a growing appreciation for botanical flavors. Originating largely from the UK, Netherlands, and Spain, imported gin brands are known for their complexity and premium appeal. Classic cocktails like the Negroni, French 75, and gin and tonic have been central to its resurgence in bars and restaurants.

8. Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Cocktails: $800 million

RTDs are among the fastest-growing alcohol segments in the U.S., driven by convenience, variety, and portability. This category includes canned cocktails, spirit-based seltzers, and pre-mixed classics. Imports come mainly from Mexico, Canada, and Europe, and appeal to on-the-go consumers who want cocktail bar quality without the prep. Innovation in packaging and flavor has fueled its rapid rise.

9. Soju and Shochu: $150 million

These East Asian spirits are gaining traction, especially in urban areas with large Asian populations or global culinary scenes. Soju (from Korea) and Shochu (from Japan) are typically lower in alcohol content, making them appealing for lighter drinking occasions. Their popularity is also linked to the rise in Korean and Japanese cuisine in the U.S., as well as broader interest in global beverage trends.

10. Other Specialty Spirits (Absinthe, Aquavit, etc.): $100 million

This catch-all category includes niche imports like absinthe, aquavit (a caraway-flavored spirit from Scandinavia), grappa, and others. These spirits appeal to mixologists, craft cocktail bars, and adventurous consumers looking for unique flavor profiles. Although a small segment by volume and value, their cultural significance and distinctiveness earn them a place among the top imported varieties.

Top 10 Most Imported Liquor Brands in the United States (2024-25)

Rank	Brand Name	Approx. Import Value (2024)	Imported from	Notes
1	Corona Extra	$1.2 billion	Mexico	Top-selling imported beer in the U.S. since 1998.
2	Don Julio	$900 million	Mexico	Leading premium tequila brand in the U.S. market.
3	Johnnie Walker	$850 million	Scotland	Best-selling Scotch whisky globally; strong U.S. presence.
4	Baileys Irish Cream	$700 million	Ireland	Top-selling liqueur in the U.S.; popular in cocktails and desserts.
5	Hennessy	$650 million	France	Leading cognac brand with significant U.S. market share.
6	Smirnoff	$600 million	United Kingdom	One of the top vodka brands in the U.S. has, wide flavor range.
7	Jose Cuervo	$550 million	Mexico	High-volume tequila brand; significant U.S. imports.
8	Cointreau	$500 million	France	Popular triple sec liqueur is used in various cocktails.
9	Campari	$450 million	Italy	Key ingredient in classic cocktails; growing U.S. popularity.
10	Pinnacle Vodka	$400 million	France	Known for its variety of flavored vodkas, strong U.S. sales.

US Liquor Import Market Overview

Total U.S. Liquor Imports (2024): $12.10 billion, encompassing wine, spirits, & beer.

Top US Liquor Importers: Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits ($3 billion)

Top Imported Liquor Categories into the US by Value

Tequila & Mezcal: $3.8 billion

Whiskey: $2.3 billion

Liqueurs & Cordials: $1.7 billion

Brandy & Cognac: $1.5 billion

Vodka: $1.21 billion

Primary Source Countries:

Mexico: Leading in tequila and beer imports.

France: Dominant in cognac and liqueurs.

Italy & Spain: Key suppliers of wines and vermouths.

United Kingdom: Major exporter of Scotch whisky and gin.

Import Volume Trends:

Tequila and mezcal imports surged by 15% year-over-year.

Wine imports experienced a slight decline, attributed to changing consumer preferences and tariff uncertainties.

Ready-to-Drink (RTD) beverages saw a 12% increase, reflecting growing demand for convenience.

USA Liquor Import Trends & Shipment Data

Active Wine Importers: Over 1,200 active wine importers operate in the U.S., sourcing from more than 70 countries.
Wine Import Shipments: Around 2,800 active wine import shipments were recorded in the U.S., as per the US wine import data.
Top Wine Importing Countries: France, Italy, Spain, Australia, and Chile remain the leading exporters to the U.S.

Emerging Trends in the US Wine Import Industry

Premiumization: Consumers are increasingly opting for higher-quality, premium imported spirits.

RTD Beverages: The convenience of RTD cocktails is driving significant growth in this segment.

Sustainability: Importers are focusing on sustainable practices, including eco-friendly packaging and carbon footprint reduction.

US Tariffs and Their Impact on Liquor Imports

Recent Tariff Changes:

As of April 5, 2025, a 10% baseline tariff applies to all imported goods, including alcoholic beverages.
An additional 20% reciprocal tariff targets specific countries, notably affecting European Union nations such as France, Italy, and Spain, bringing the total tariff to 30% on certain products.

Impacted Categories:

Wine: European wines face significant price increases, leading to potential declines in import volumes.
Spirits: Products with protected designations, like Scotch whisky and Cognac, are particularly affected due to their inability to be produced elsewhere.

Industry Response:

US liquor Importers are stockpiling products like Italian Prosecco in anticipation of tariff hikes.
Some companies are exploring local production or partnerships to mitigate tariff impacts.
There is a shift towards diversifying sourcing to countries not affected by the tariffs.

Recent Trade Disputes on US Liquor Tariffs

EU Tariffs on American Whiskey: The EU implemented retaliatory tariffs on American whiskey as a reaction to U.S. tariffs on steel/aluminum. According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, these tariffs have been both suspended and reinstated at various times.
U.S. Tariffs on EU Spirits: In reply to the WTO Boeing-Airbus dispute, the U.S. has also enacted tariffs on several EU spirits, such as Single Malt Scotch and Irish Whiskey.
Prospect of Increased Tariffs: Threats have emerged regarding the imposition of even greater tariffs on EU spirits, such as a potential 200% tariff on French-made Champagne and other EU beverages.
USMCA Exception: Items that meet the criteria for favorable treatment under the USMCA—most wine, beer, and spirits included—are typically exempt from additional tariffs.

Strategic Insights

Supply Chain Adjustments: Importers are reevaluating their supply chains to reduce dependency on high-tariff regions.
Market Diversification: Exploring new markets and alternative products to maintain competitiveness.
Consumer Pricing: Tariffs may lead to increased prices for consumers, potentially affecting demand.
Advocacy Efforts: Industry groups are lobbying for tariff exemptions or reductions to alleviate the burden on importers and consumers.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The US liquor import market is a dynamic and thriving industry, with a wide range of importers bringing in popular and high-quality liquors from around the world. From major distributors like Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits and RNDC to regional players such as Breakthru Beverage Group and Young's Market Company, there is no shortage of options for American consumers looking to enjoy a taste of international spirits. Whether you're a fan of whiskey, tequila, vodka, or rum, there is something for everyone in the US liquor import market. So, next time you're looking to enjoy a glass of your favorite international spirit, remember to thank these top importers for making it all possible. Cheers!

To conclude, we hope that you liked our interactive and insightful blog report on the US liquor import market and top importers. Visit USImportdata for the latest US export-import data and a customized database report on US liquor imports for the first quarter of 2025! Contact us at info@tradeimex.in and get a list of the top liquor importers in the USA.

FAQS

1. Who is the largest liquor distributor?

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits is the largest liquor distributor in the U.S., operating across 40+ states and Canada.

2. Who are the top liquor importers in the USA?

Top liquor importers in the USA include Southern Glazer’s, Diageo North America, and RND Co., leading in wine and spirits, as per the US liquor importers data.

3. Which countries export the most liquor to the USA?

Mexico, France, Italy, the UK, and Canada are the largest liquor exporters to the U.S., supplying tequila, cognac, wine, and whisky, based on the US liquor import data by country.

4. How does USImportdata help identify top liquor importers in the USA?

USImportdata offers the latest shipment data, importer data, market trends, and trade database analytics to help businesses identify leading liquor importers in the USA.