From vineyards in Georgia to breweries in Japan, and from traditional distillers in Mexico to premium wine producers in Greece, the global drinks trade is rich in diversity and deeply complex in logistics. At Kukla UK, we proudly connect this vibrant world, supporting importers and exporters with tailored transport solutions and regulatory expertise. As a global logistics provider specialising in the transport of alcoholic beverages, we ensure smooth passage for products whether they’re crossing intra-EU borders, entering the UK market post-Brexit, or travelling intercontinentally by sea, rail, or road.
Your Drinks, Our Global Know-how
Each country presents its own specific documentation and customs requirements, particularly when crossing into the UK or EU. We don’t just move goods, we navigate regulations, shift routes with geopolitical changes, and keep your business flowing. We have our network of partners and regulatory understanding to support your shipment every step of the way.
For every case of wine or spirits you import, there’s a chain of documents, customs codes and certifications behind it.
When transporting goods from EU countries like Greece, there are specific documentation requirements to follow. Imports from countries such as Japan, Moldova, Georgia, or Mexico fall outside the EU and are subject to different customs regulations.
The country of origin becomes especially important, particularly in cases where preferential trade agreements are in place.
Precision matters. All information across invoices and customs forms, like quantities, weights, or values, must align exactly.
Kukla UK has the capability to route shipments from anywhere and possesses the knowledge and expertise to navigate these processes effectively.
Supporting the Beverage Trade Across Borders with Compliant Transport
We know the stakes are high. A single missing declaration or mismatched invoice can delay a delivery or add costly duties. That’s why we ask the tough questions upfront, because each regulatory regime has its twists, and we’d rather navigate those on day one of your shipment.
We don’t just provide freight solutions, we enable trade. Whether you’re sourcing sparkling wines from Greece or artisanal spirits from Georgia, we’ll help you move it across continents with confidence. And when in doubt, just ask. Full loads, or mixed pallets, bonded warehousing, or compliance checks? At Kukla UK, we’re always happy to help.
Did You Know? Traditional spirits behind the shots: Sake, Chacha, Rachiu, Ouzo and Tequila
From sake to chacha, and from rachiu to ouzo and tequila. This month, in our “Did You Know?” section, we are focusing on the traditional drinks and spirits from some of the countries featured in this article: Japan, Georgia, Moldova, Greece and Mexico.
Photo: Sake; Credit: Pixabay
Sake in Japan
Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic drink made from fermented rice. Despite being often referred to as “rice wine,” it is brewed more like beer.
Alcohol content is usually between 15%–16%. Some sake is brewed to around 20% ABV (alcohol by volume) and then diluted with water before bottling, while other varieties, such as sparkling sake, are lower in alcohol.
Sake can be served hot, warm, or chilled, depending on the season and type. It’s traditionally poured into small porcelain cups called ochoko and enjoyed during meals, ceremonies, and celebrations.
In the Japanese culture, it’s customary to pour sake for others before pouring for yourself as a sign of respect and friendship.
Chacha in Georgia
Chacha is a powerful Georgian spirit made from grape pomace, the solid residue left after grapes are pressed for wine. Often called “Georgian vodka”, alcohol content typically ranges from 40%–65%.
Served in small shot glasses, often before or after a meal, and during long feasts where toasts are made with deep meaning. Homemade chacha is considered a family pride and is often offered to guests as a gesture of hospitality.
Rachiu in Moldova
Rachiu or tuica is a homemade fruit brandy, typically made from plums or apples. Alcohol content can be up to 60%.
Rachiu is consumed in shots, often in ceremonial or rural settings, such as weddings or christenings. In Moldova, these spirits represent hospitality and heritage, and guests are often welcomed with a shot and a smile.
Ouzo in Greece
Photo Ouzo; Credit: Pixabay.
Ouzo is a dry anise-flavoured aperitif, clear in appearance but turns milky white when mixed with water or ice. Alcohol content is usually 37.5%–40%.
Often sipped slowly, diluted with water or ice, accompanied by meze, which are small dishes like olives, feta, or seafood.
Ouzo is deeply connected to Greek identity. Drinking it is a social ritual, meant to be shared in good company, with storytelling and music.
Tequila in Mexico
Photo: Tequila; Credit: Pixabay
Tequila is made from the blue agave plant, primarily produced in the region surrounding Tequila, in the state of Jalisco. Alcohol content is typically around 38%–40%.
In Mexico, high-quality tequila is sipped slowly, not like a shot, and is often served at room temperature. Tequila shots with salt and lime are more common internationally.
There are strict regulations around tequila production, which must be made in specific Mexican states. It’s a source of national pride and is deeply tied to both tradition and celebration.