Vodka
Vodka is essential for any bar setup, and Costco provides two varieties of Kirkland Signature: an American vodka and a French vodka. Both receive excellent reviews, with many noting their clean, creamy taste and a hint of citrus. The French vodka, in particular, is a favorite among fans for its smooth texture and delicate vanilla undertones. These vodkas are available in 1.75-liter bottles and usually retail for under $30.
Many would agree that Kirkland Signature vodkas are a fantastic deal, as they rival, if not surpass, some of the most well-known vodkas available. There was a rumor that Grey Goose produced the French version, but Grey Goose has officially denied this claim. The actual producer of Costco's French vodka is the Distillerie de Gayant in France. While some compare the Kirkland American vodka to Tito's, it is actually produced by the LeVecke Corporation in California.
Gin
If you're a fan of London dry gins, Costco has a great option for you. The Kirkland Signature gin is crafted in accordance with the standards for London dry gins, meaning it incorporates natural botanicals during the distillation process. This gin undergoes five distillations and features a blend of aromatic ingredients such as juniper berries, orange peel, coriander, cassia bark, cardamom pods, orris root, angelica root, lemon peel, and rose. It is available in a 1.75-liter bottle, priced around $18 to $20, depending on the location. Many describe its flavor profile as soft, floral, and herbaceous.
There has been much speculation regarding the producer of Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin. Contrary to common assumptions, it is not made by Bombay or Tanqueray. The label indicates that it is produced and distributed by DC Flynt MW Domaines & Estates in Silverton, Ohio. While the name may not be well-known in gin circles, the gin has received excellent reviews, with many praising it as a strong contender that holds its own against competitors and performs well in cocktails such as gin and tonics, negronis, and martinis.
Rum
Rum is a key item on any bar cart and is featured in the Kirkland Signature spirits lineup. The Kirkland Signature Original Spiced Rum has been available at warehouses for several years. It is sold in a 1.75-liter bottle, priced between $17 and $26. While it earned a bronze award at the International Spirits and Wine Competition (ISWC) in 2019, customer feedback is mixed. Some enjoy it in cocktails like rum and cokes, while others find its flavor to be overly artificial.
If the Original Spiced Rum doesn't appeal to you, Costco has recently introduced several new rum options worth considering. The Kirkland Signature Barrel-Aged 15-Year Rum from Panama is noted for its smoothness and hints of brown sugar and vanilla. The Port Cask Finished 12-Year Rum from Panama also receives positive feedback for its gentle sweetness and toffee undertones. Additionally, the XO Bourbon Casked Rum from Guatemala is praised for its rich, well-balanced flavors. Each of these bottles is priced at under $25.
Scotch Whisky
Kirkland Signature might not be the first brand that springs to mind when considering premium Scotch, but many enthusiasts claim that some of the best value spirits available at Costco are their Scotch whiskies. The selection includes various options, such as blended Scotch and single malt whiskies aged between 12 and 23 years. Among the single malts, you can choose from a Highland, Islay, or Speyside Sherry Cask Finish Scotch, with prices starting at approximately $25 per bottle.
While Costco does not disclose the specific distilleries that produce its Scotch, it is known that the Kirkland brand whiskies are crafted by Alexander Murray & Company, an independent bottler based in California that sources Scotch from across Scotland. The range offered at Costco is frequently updated, so you may discover new varieties available in warehouses throughout the year. Be on the lookout for the single malt sampler box and Scotch advent calendars that typically appear during the holiday season.
Irish Whiskey
Fans of Irish whiskeys such as Jameson and Bushmills will be pleased to discover that Costco has its own affordable version of this beloved spirit. The Kirkland Signature Irish Whiskey is available in a 1.75-liter bottle and typically retails for under $50 at most locations. Like many Irish whiskeys, this Kirkland offering is distilled three times and aged for four years, which exceeds the minimum aging requirement for Irish whiskeys.
The exact distillery behind Kirkland Signature Irish Whiskey remains a mystery, but it is distributed by MISA Imports, based in Dallas, Texas. Regardless of its origin, many drinkers find it to be a respectable choice for the price. Some describe its flavor profile as having hints of fruit, vanilla, and lemon. While it may not be overly intricate and can leave a slight burn, this is common for Irish whiskeys in this price range. While sipping it neat may not be the preferred option for everyone, it is often praised for its performance in cocktails like whiskey sours and Irish coffees.
Canadian Whisky
Completing the Kirkland Signature whisky collection is a blended Canadian whisky available in a 1.75-liter bottle, typically priced under $30 at most retailers. To qualify as Canadian whisky, the spirit must be produced in Canada and aged for at least three years in wooden barrels. Costco's offering is likely crafted in Canada and matured in oak barrels for six years. Many reviews suggest it’s an excellent value for the price.
The identity of the distillery behind Kirkland Signature Canadian Whisky remains a mystery, but there is speculation that it could be Crown Royal. This theory is supported by the similarities in packaging, including nearly identical fonts and purple labels around the necks of the bottles. Many tasters note that the flavor profiles are quite comparable, featuring vanilla undertones and a hint of sweetness with caramel and maple syrup notes. Some claim that Kirkland Signature has a bit more spice than Crown Royal, while others find it to be smoother. Regardless, it serves as a fantastic alternative to Crown Royal at a lower price.
Bourbon
While Costco keeps customers guessing about the origins of many of its Kirkland Signature spirits, the source of its bourbon is well-known. In 2021, the retail giant partnered with Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, to create three exclusive bourbons. If you visit a Costco warehouse, you might find bottles of the Single Barrel, Bottled-in-Bond, and Small Batch bourbons, each typically priced under $30 for a 1-liter bottle.
The standout among Costco's bourbons is the Single Barrel, boasting a robust 60% ABV. Tasters describe its rich, woody notes with a subtle hint of vanilla and a dry finish that delivers a satisfying warmth. The Small Batch and Bottled-in-Bond bourbons have ABVs of 46% and 50%, respectively, and are noted for their bright, fruity, and slightly sweet profiles, complemented by enjoyable finishes. Many enthusiasts have conducted side-by-side tastings of the Kirkland Signature bourbons alongside similar offerings from 1792 Distillery, often finding them nearly identical in quality, with the Kirkland versions being more affordable.
Tequila
If you're considering making a batch of margaritas, Costco has a selection of reasonably priced tequilas. You can choose from five varieties: silver, blanco, reposado, cristalino, and añejo. The silver and blanco tequilas are available in 1.75-liter bottles, while the reposado, cristalino, and añejo options come in 1-liter bottles. Prices differ based on the type of tequila.
Tequila producers must adhere to strict regulations. For instance, only blue Weber agave plants can be used in the production of tequila, and it can only be produced in five specific Mexican states. Additionally, the final product must be verified with a NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) number. This number indicates that the Kirkland Signature tequilas are produced at the Santa Lucia Distillery in Tesistán, near Guadalajara. Many reviewers describe the tequilas as fairly average. While these expressions may not be award-winning, most people find them suitable for cocktails and a good value for their price.
Pre-made cocktails
Craving a cocktail but don’t want the fuss of mixing, stirring, and shaking? Costco simplifies drink preparation with its ready-to-serve cocktails. A standout favorite is the Kirkland Signature Golden Margarita, available in two varieties: a premium version made with tequila and a cocktail made with agave wine. The premium option is packaged in a 1.75-liter bottle and contains lime juice, gold tequila, and triple sec liqueur. The agave wine cocktail comes in a 1.5-liter bottle and features agave wine blended with lime and orange juice. Both are priced around $10 and are generally well-received.
Additionally, Costco has introduced a pre-made old fashioned cocktail, available in a liter bottle, which includes bourbon and bitters. This option is priced at approximately $16, depending on the location, and has received mixed feedback from customers. Be on the lookout for the Twelve Nights of Cocktails box set, which will be available at select stores during the holiday season. Priced at around $40, this set includes 12 different canned cocktails, featuring an old fashioned, Thai gimlet, negroni, and mai tai.
XO Cognac
One of Costco's top-tier alcoholic selections is the Kirkland Signature XO Fine Cognac. This 750-milliliter bottle typically ranges in price from $60 to $75. While this may appear expensive compared to some other Kirkland Signature spirits, it's important to remember that this is authentic cognac. It is produced by Peyrat-Associés & CIE, a respected French company established in 1920. Maison Peyrat is celebrated for its outstanding cognacs, which are aged in oak for longer than the usual two years.
Like most cognacs, the Kirkland Signature XO Fine Cognac is crafted from ugni blanc grapes that are pressed, fermented into wine, and then distilled in copper pot stills. The XO label signifies that the cognac is extra old, meaning it has been aged in oak barrels for at least 10 years. The result is a luxurious cognac with complex flavors, including hints of vanilla, chocolate, almond, and dried fruit. Many reviewers describe it as a smooth drink that offers excellent value, making it a worthy addition to your bar collection.
Irish Cream
Bailey's Irish Cream is a wonderfully creamy treat that shines whether served over ice, mixed into coffee, blended into boozy milkshakes, or used in baked desserts. However, the downside is that Bailey's can be a bit on the expensive side. That's where Costco's alternative comes in, offering a similar taste at about half the cost. There are two options available at Costco: the Kirkland Signature Irish Cream Liqueur and the Kirkland Signature Irish Country Cream.
Costco's Irish Cream Liqueur is available in a 1.75-liter bottle for around $17. It is produced in Ireland using Irish whiskey and cream, boasting an ABV of 17%. On the other hand, the Irish Country Cream is slightly cheaper, priced at about $12 for a 1.5-liter bottle. This version is made in the U.S. and combines dessert wine with cream, featuring an ABV of 13.9%. The specific version you find at your local Costco will depend on your state's liquor regulations. Warehouses that are permitted to sell liquor are likely to carry the stronger Irish Liqueur, while those limited to beer and wine will only offer the Irish Country Cream.
Orange Liqueur
If you've been trying out various cocktails, you may have noticed that many recipes include a type of triple sec liqueur. These orange-flavored liqueurs are mildly sweet and can add a zesty burst of flavor to drinks like margaritas, sidecars, and cosmopolitans. You might opt for a popular brand such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier. However, Costco offers a version that tastes just as delightful as the well-known brands while saving you some money.
For around $18, you can purchase a 750-milliliter bottle of Kirkland Signature Orange Liqueur, crafted with cognac and orange extract. With an ABV of 40%, it's robust enough to enjoy on its own or to provide an extra kick in cocktails. While it's not clear which company produces Costco's triple sec-style liqueur, many people liken it to Grand Marnier. In fact, numerous individuals have conducted side-by-side tastings of the two orange liqueurs, and many find it hard to distinguish between them. Those who can tell a difference often note that the Kirkland version is slightly sweeter and has a longer finish.
Eggnog
As the holiday season approaches, Costco introduces a selection of seasonal drinks that are available for a limited time. One standout favorite among customers is the Kirkland Signature Eggnog. Depending on your location, you can choose between the classic eggnog liqueur, which comes in a 1.75-liter bottle and contains whiskey, spiced rum, and brandy, or the eggnog wine cocktail, available in a 1.5-liter bottle and made with orange wine. The liqueur has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 14.75%, while the wine cocktail has an ABV of 13.9%.
Both varieties of Kirkland eggnog are crafted with real dairy cream and infused with French vanilla. Many customers rave about its smoothness, sweetness, and the pleasant warmth from the alcohol. The main criticism is that it can be a bit on the thin side. However, many enjoy it over ice and find it pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate. Priced at around $10 per bottle, it’s a fantastic bargain. Just be sure to stock up, as it tends to sell out quickly.
Wine
Wine enthusiasts will discover a variety of affordable wines at Costco, many produced by esteemed wine brands. There are options for every palate, featuring a refreshing white from New Zealand, bold reds from Napa Valley, a French rosé, and sparkling selections like prosecco and Champagne. Additionally, you can grab a Kirkland Signature 10-Year Tawny Port, which many consider quite enjoyable. With new bottles and vintages frequently available, it's common to stumble upon exciting finds during each visit.
If you're craving a simple and refreshing wine cocktail, Costco offers a Classic Red Sangria. Available in a 1.5-liter bottle for under $10, the label claims it’s crafted from a time-honored family recipe, blending red wine, Valencia oranges, and Mediterranean spices. Customers describe it as fresh, fruity, and perfect over ice. While some find it slightly sweet, they often balance it out with a splash of soda water.
Beer
Costco is well-acquainted with the beer industry. Over the years, the company has introduced a range of Kirkland Signature beers, some of which have been well-received while others have been complete failures. Many members may remember the Kirkland light beer that garnered negative feedback online, leading to its downfall. However, that setback may have paved the way for improvement, as Costco has since launched a new selection of beers that are receiving much more favorable reviews.
The Kirkland Signature Helles-style Lager made its debut on Costco shelves in 2024 and is quickly becoming a favorite among fans for its refreshing taste. Brewed by Deschutes Brewery in Oregon, a 12-pack is priced at around $12. Additionally, Costco has introduced a bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout called Vintage Ale, also crafted by Deschutes, which is generating significant buzz. Priced at approximately $10 per bottle, it is said to be full-bodied with rich chocolate and malt notes. For those looking to sample a variety, the Kirkland Signature Craft Brewed sampler pack offers 24 bottles of IPA, stout, brown ale, and pale ale for about $20.
Hard seltzer
Hard seltzer is currently trending, so it's no surprise that Costco has embraced this popular beverage. The Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer variety pack features four distinct flavors of spiked sparkling water: mango, grapefruit, black cherry, and lime. Each 12-ounce can contains only 100 calories and has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5%. A 24-pack is priced at approximately $18, which is a great value compared to a typical 12-pack of White Claw, which usually retails for around $21.
The manufacturer of Costco's hard seltzers is Patco Brands, based in Mount Hood, Oregon. This is the same company responsible for products like 7-Eleven's Miracle Seltzer and Rancho La Gloria pre-mixed cocktails. Patco also collaborates with other well-known retailers such as Target, Whole Foods, and Walmart. Customers generally have positive feedback about the Kirkland Signature hard seltzers, with many noting that the flavors are enjoyable without being overly sweet or too strong. Many reviewers find them quite comparable to White Claws, but at a more affordable price point.
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