Joh, there is a little noticed part of the act that repealed prohibition that requires US Customs officers to enforce the state laws at the port of entry. At Seattle, customs agents are supposed to require a release from the State of Washington before you can bring in over the 1 litre allowance. Whenever I have asked in advance, for a reasonable number of bottles, the Washington State Liquor office has always given be a permit at no charge. Once, when I hadn't cleared previously - I was bringing in several cases - the customs people at SeaTac impounded the wine, and I had to go to the State Liquor Board office adjacent to the airport. It only cost me about an hour delay, but that could be particularly onerous if you are making a tight connection. Another time, when I didn't have the state permit, the Customs Officer kept asking me if I was returning household goods. It took a couple of trys before I caught on and answered "yes", and he waved me through. Apparently there is also some sort of exception for this.

Also, I have had no problem when I cleared customs at Washington DC.

But, just to feel confortable, I would dash off a letter to the California Liquor office and be prepared.

Bruce