From Kiplinger · · 2m
10 US Christmas Markets: Cheapest to Most Taxed Wine
US Christmas markets ranked by wine tax rates from $0.20 to $1.70 per gallon.
In brief
US Christmas markets ranked by wine tax rates from $0.20 to $1.70 per gallon. US Christmas markets ranked by state wine excise tax rates, with Cambria, California at $0.20 per gallon and Cullman, Alabama at $1.70 per gallon. Originally reported by Kiplinger.
Why wine taxes vary
State excise taxes on imported wine differ across US Christmas markets, affecting holiday spending.
Top 10 markets ranked
Kiplinger ranked ten US Christmas markets by state wine excise tax rates using Tax Foundation data for imported 11% ABV wine.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has an alcohol control state monopoly with 30% wholesale markup and 18% state liquor tax, making it the most expensive market.
Cullman, Alabama
Alabama's state wine excise tax is $1.70 per gallon, ranking as the highest rate among the ten markets.
Chicago, Illinois
Illinois levies a wine excise tax of $1.39 per gallon, with three market locations including Daley Plaza and Wrigley Field.
Leavenworth, Washington
Washington's wine excise tax is $0.87 per gallon, with free admission and over half a million twinkling holiday bulbs.
Silverton, Oregon
Oregon's wine excise tax is $0.67 per gallon, with ticket prices ranging from $15 to $25 for adults.
Kennebunkport, Maine
Maine's wine excise tax is $0.60 per gallon, with free admission and coastal holiday traditions.
Carmel, Indiana
Indiana's wine excise tax is $0.47 per gallon, with free admission and a 10-ton Glühwein pyramid.
New York City, New York
New York's wine excise tax is $0.30 per gallon, with free admission and multiple market locations.
Rochester, New York
Rochester's wine excise tax matches New York City's at $0.30 per gallon but has lower local sales taxes.
Cambria, California
Cambria's wine excise tax is $0.20 per gallon, the lowest rate in the US, with ticket prices from $25 to $45.
Tax impact on holiday spending
State excise taxes are built into wholesale prices, influencing festival costs and holiday budgets.
Market features
Markets offer German crafts, food, ice skating, and holiday lights with varying activities and pricing.
Why tax rates matter
Lower state wine excise taxes reduce holiday costs while maintaining authentic German market experiences.
Best markets for budget travelers
Cambria, California offers the lowest tax rate at $0.20 per gallon with scenic coastal views and affordable activities.
The one thing
US Christmas markets ranked by state wine excise tax rates, with Cambria, California at $0.20 per gallon and Cullman, Alabama at $1.70 per gallon.
