Insights
Spirits Intelligence
Expert analysis, regulatory updates, and market commentary for the premium spirits industry across Central Europe.
Exclusive whisky tasting with a four-course menu
Experience an evening where fine dining meets the world's finest whiskies. "Salabka, Prague"
30. 4. 2026
3 min read
Tequila from the point of view of legislation: what does "100% agave" really mean and why it cannot be produced outside Mexico
Tequila is one of the most strictly regulated spirits in the world. Unlike many other categories of alcohol, it is not just a technological process, but a legally protected product with precisely defined origins, production rules and control mechanisms. For traders, distributors and investors alike, understanding this legislation is key.
ProWein Düsseldorf 2026: where the global world of wine and spirits meets
One of the places where the global community of wine and spirits professionals meet every year - a space for new partnerships, business opportunities and conversations that move the whole sector forward.
[DRAFT TRANSLATION EN] Spotrebná daň na liehoviny 2026: Čo sa mení vo vybraných krajinách
[DRAFT TRANSLATION EN] Prehľad kľúčových zmien sadzieb spotrebnej dane na alkohol v CZ, SK, PL a AT pre rok 2026 — čo musia výrobcovia a importéri vedieť.
B2B distribution readiness: a 6-point check before entering Central Europe
Many spirits enter Central Europe with a strong product but incomplete commercial preparation. A six-point readiness check to carry out before your first conversation with a distributor.
Launching a Private Label Spirit: A Step-by-Step Operational Guide
Getting the sequence right in a private label spirits project saves time and money. From brief to first delivery — six steps that work in practice.
Route Planning for Spirits Shipments: 5 Common Pitfalls
Small oversights in cross-border spirits logistics cause expensive delays. Here are five pitfalls that regularly catch spirits businesses off guard — and how to avoid them.
Spirits Label Compliance: A Three-Layer Market-by-Market Approach
How to verify label compliance before entering a new market — EU legislation, national requirements, and retail standards in one practical framework.
Under Bond vs Duty Paid: Choosing the Right Movement Regime for Spirits
When to use under-bond movement and when duty-paid is the right choice — the differences in documentation, cash flow, and operational requirements.
Excise Duty on Spirits: A Practical Guide for Central Europe
What excise duty is, when the liability arises, and how it is calculated — a practical foundation for spirits producers, importers, and distributors.
EU Spirits Labelling: Mandatory Label Elements
What information must appear on spirits labels sold in the EU market — a practical overview of mandatory elements under Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 and the 2021 amendment.
Bonded Warehouse Operations for Spirits: A Practical Guide
How bonded warehouses work for spirits importers, the documents required, and why Hyveco in Brno is the preferred partner for CZ/SK operations.