Yes, that sounds exactly correct.

Prices only go up, all that's required is a plausible excuse.

This is what happens when you shape your entire individual and cultural identity around "number go up"

Retailer profits from foreign wine decreased because of reductions in sales (~12% iirc). This is textbook econ 101, profit maximization of a firm, supply and demand etc.

Taxes make after tax prices go up and reduce profits due to reduced quantity.

No reason to go searching for a "plausible excuse" or some greater critique of culture.