I have taken wine in checked luggage several times from EU and US back here - never more than 12 bottles. I have done it a few ways, but having a carry-on sized case with one of those half case polystyrene boxes is definitely the easiest way. On other occasions, making sure they are wedged in the case, not too close to the outside and not touching each other has been fine. I always put them in tied up bin bags, too just in case. I've got no idea about refunds if it gets broken, but I doubt you'd get anywhere.