The latest figures reveal a staggering 9.6% surge in alcohol prices in the United Kingdom, leaving Britons feeling the pinch in their wallets amid the rampant inflation gripping Europe. As reported on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, by British media outlets, the spike in alcohol costs has spurred a renewed influx of UK customers to Calais Vins.
Booming Business at Calais Vins
In 2023, Calais Vins experienced a remarkable 57% increase in British clientele compared to 2022. Britons, rediscovering the allure of the booze cruise after the Covid-19 pandemic hiatus, have reinstated this time-honored tradition.
Recognizing Value at Calais Vins
Jérôme Pont of Calais Vins notes, "Our British clientele understands the value of purchasing wine from us. They seek more than just cheap booze; they recognize that, by coming here, they can find top-quality wines ranging from €10 to €25."
Affordability for the French (and the British)
And let's talk about affordability for the French—indeed, the British, if consuming the wine in the UK, reclaim the VAT, resulting in an additional 15% savings compared to our European counterparts.
Calais Vins vs. UK High Street Prices
Calais Vins decided to playfully compare its in-store prices to high street prices in the UK, revealing substantial savings:
| Grape Variety | High Street Prices UK (£) | Calais Vins Price (€) | Calais Vins Tax-Free Price (€) | Calais Vins Price with Duty-Free in £ |
| Bordeaux Château Recougne Supérieur | £ 10,99 | €7,90 | € 6,71 | £ 5,73 |
|
Champagne Laurent Perrier |
£ 44,99 | € 41,95 | €35,66 | £ 30,47 |
| SANCERRE White Loire Valley Wine By Domaine Roger NEVEU | £ 19,00 | €15,95 | €13,56 | £11,58 |
| Chablis By Maurice Lecestre White Burgundy Wine | £ 29,90 | €15,50 | €13,18 | £ 11,26 |
Calais Vins: The Beacon of Savings and Quality
With the pound sterling at €1.17, the savings can reach nearly 50% on certain grape varieties. While Britons must cross the Channel for their purchases, Calais Vins sweetens the deal by offering a complimentary crossing to clients who pre-order online for €300 or more. Due to its success, this offer is set to continue throughout 2024.
As inflation squeezes British budgets, Calais Vins emerges as the beacon of savings and quality. Britons are once again embracing the iconic booze cruise, capitalizing on substantial discounts and VAT reclaims. With Calais Vins, the journey across the Channel becomes a passport to exceptional wines, creating a seamless blend of affordability, quality, and a touch of cross-Channel adventure.
Fin out more about the offer
UK Duty free allowances:
• beer - 42 litres
• wine (not sparkling) - 18 litres
You can also bring in either:
• spirits and other liquors over 22% alcohol - 4 litres
• fortified wine (for example port, sherry), sparkling wine and alcoholic drinks up to 22% alcohol - 9 litres
You can split this last allowance, for example you could bring 4.5 litres of fortified wine and 2 litres of spirits (both half of your allowance).
How does the refund work?
With Global Blue
Collect your Tax Free Form from the store.
Scan the bar code on the form at the kiosks located at the PABLO terminal in the ferry port. Located in the main building after the customs. Or in the passenger building for Eurotunnel.
https://www.globalblue.com
Day Trip Offer on the Ferry with Calais Vins and Olivier Vins.
TRAVEL FREE with P&O Ferries
PLACE A MINIMUM €300 ORDER ONLINE (add the ferry crossing to your online basket).
MAKE A €60 DEPOSIT ONLINE by credit card (only debited if you don't pick up your order).
RECEIVE YOUR BOOKING NUMBER BY MAIL.
CONTACT THE P&O CALL CENTER to choose the date and time of your crossing.
PICK UP & PAY for your order in-store.