PRIVATE IMPORT
Access, not a promotion
In Quebec, the Société des alcools du Québec holds the exclusive right to import alcoholic beverages. Therefore, an agency like ours does not sell the alcohol: it selects the wines, brings them in, and guides you through the process. The SAQ oversees the transaction and hands over your bottles.
It is easier to do than to explain. Here is exactly what happens.
THE SEVEN-STEP JOURNEY
1. You browse the selection
The prices shown are all-inclusive. There are no surprises along the way.
2. You add to your cart, by the case
Private imports are sold by the full case, never by the bottle. Depending on the wine, the case contains 1, 3, 6, or 12 bottles. The format is indicated on each product page.
3. You choose your SAQ branch
You pick up your order at the branch of your choice, from among those authorized to process private imports. Pickup is free.
4. You pay the service fees online
When ordering, you pay the agency’s service fees. This covers our work in selection, importation, and guidance.
5. The SAQ authorizes, then contacts you
The process begins once authorization is obtained. The SAQ will notify you as soon as your order has arrived at the branch.
6. You pay the product cost upon pickup
The cost of the bottles is paid directly to the SAQ at the counter when you pick them up.
7. You open the bottle
This is the only step we cannot do for you.
GOOD TO KNOW
We do not offer home delivery
Pickup at an SAQ branch is the only available delivery method for private imports. This is not our choice, but a legal requirement.
Timelines
A wine already in the warehouse ships quickly. A wine that must be brought in from the vineyard takes several weeks. The actual lead time is indicated on each product page, and we will notify you if it changes.
A defective product
A corked or broken bottle can be returned to the SAQ branch. We will process an exchange, or a refund if an exchange is impossible. The bottle must be at least three-quarters full and purchased within the last twelve months. Keep your receipt.
ANY QUESTIONS?
Write to us, we respond the same day.
daniel@vinshorizon.com