How many importers are supplying the US with European wines today? If one was planning to get into the business of importing, what are the most important things to keep in mind? Also, my research shows that depending on whom you ask, the top three US importers vary quite a bit. From Neil Empson, Marc de Grazia, Vias to smaller importers such as John Givens Imports and Oliver Crum Imports. What type of criteria would you use in determining your top picks for importers that you trust and who would you choose? Why do some importers never get off the ground but others become national favorites? I am playing the 20 questions game because one of my close friends is looking into becoming an importer of french & italian wine as well as European artisan cheese. From my research it would appear that this is a difficult market to excel at but I would love to be proved wrong.
