President Trump's recent threat to impose a 200 percent tariff on European wine, champagne, and spirits has local wine businesses bracing for potential impacts. The proposed tariffs come in response to the European Union's plan to impose a 50 percent tariff on American whiskey.
If the tariffs go into effect, a $22 bottle of French wine could jump to around $50.
At Three60 Wine in Naples, CEO Jason Parsons says the business is monitoring the situation closely.
"So, at this stage, it's a ton of speculation and almost zero clarity. So, we're going to continue to monitor it. Myself, our wine buyer, will continue to watch it very, very closely," Parsons said.
Parsons says Three60 Wine will continue to prioritize its customers despite the uncertainty.
"Well, what I think is they're very loyal to us because of the service. They're also very loyal because, let's be honest, they're also very loyal because of the pricing. We will still keep our pricing very competitive no matter what happens," Parsons said.
Local wine lovers are reacting to the proposed tariff.
"My reaction is frustration and anger," said Mary Roulston, a Three60 Wine customer. "That [Trump] would place that tariff and potentially a business like this that provides us with European wines that no longer could be able to provide that to us for a reasonable cost."
When asked if she thinks this would bring better business to American wine and champagne businesses, Roulston said:
"Perhaps. But why can't we have choice? We just went to Italy last summer, and we're so excited to come here and have that choice to be here — so let's just make it equal for people to choose what they would like," she said.
For now, the proposed tariffs have not taken effect. Customers can still find European spirits at affordable prices on the shelves.