At one time I delivered lost/delayed/forwarded airline luggage. Most folks think it is ineptitude on the part of airline baggage handlers. More frequently, it is dependent on the pilot's judgement of weight on the aircraft, weather anticipated, and amount of fuel onboard. If the pilot anticipates being in a holding pattern to land or possible reroute, it's nice to have a bit of extra fuel on board instead of that one extra baggage cart.
It's tough to fill up in the air while circling JFK.
Oh well on the liquor, you and the missus might have a tipsy night in NY waiting for that connecting flight.:)
You can also plead your case to the airlines and see if they will forward the bottles to your destination for the inconvenience.