Kirkland Wine: Costco's Gem or Not Worth It?

  • Last Updated - 4/21/23
Kirkland wine

Costco has become synonymous with bulk shopping and warehouse deals. Among the countless products they offer, the Kirkland Signature brand stands out for providing high-quality items at affordable prices.

A lesser-known treasure from this line is Kirkland Signature Wine—a range of remarkable, wallet-friendly wines sourced from renowned wineries across the globe. So in this article, we’ll delve into the story behind Kirkland Signature Wine, its quality, and our 8 favorite wines amongst the brand.

Table of Contents

The Story Behind Kirkland Wine

Kirkland Wine was introduced in 2003 as an extension of Costco’s private label, Kirkland Signature. The brand aims to offer premium products at competitive prices, with the wine range being no exception.

Costco collaborates with top wineries worldwide, including those from France, Italy, Spain, Australia, and the United States, to source, blend, and bottle their wines. Kirkland Signature Wine’s success is rooted in its ability to provide wine lovers with diverse and high-quality options that won’t break the bank.

Quality and Selection

Costco wine

Costco’s extensive network of partnerships with renowned wineries ensures that Kirkland Signature Wines are crafted using high-quality grapes and traditional winemaking techniques. Plus, Costco’s wine buyers work directly with wineries to create exclusive blends. And the wines are often aged in the same oak barrels and produced by the same winemakers as their more expensive counterparts.

In addition, the Kirkland Signature Wine range is vast, catering to various tastes and preferences. From reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Barolo, and Malbec to whites like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, and Pinot Grigio, there is a Kirkland wine for every palate. Additionally, the collection features, Sangria, Rosé and sparkling wines, including Champagne and Prosecco, for those who prefer a little fizz.

Value for Money

Kirkland Wine cheap

One of the main reasons Kirkland Signature Wine has become popular among wine enthusiasts is its unbeatable value for money. 

Costco is able to offer these premium wines at significantly lower prices due to the company’s immense buying power. And this also enables them to negotiate better deals with wineries. This savings is then passed on to the customer, providing an opportunity to enjoy exceptional wines at a fraction of the cost of their more famous counterparts.

Who Makes Kirkland Wines?

Costco’s wine buyers collaborate with established winemakers and wineries from all wine-producing regions. And the specific wineries and winemakers involved may not be publicly disclosed, as Costco often keeps this information confidential to maintain a competitive edge.

What are the Best Kirkland Wines? Our 8 Favorites!

1) Kirkland Marlborough Ti Point Sauvignon Blanc

Kirkland Marlborough Ti Point Sauvignon Blanc

A solid, Sauvignon Blanc produced by the Kirkland brand. But it’s worth noting that it’s difficult to go wrong with New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs from Marlborough.

Sourced from the renowned Marlborough wine region in New Zealand, this wine showcases the distinctive characteristics of its terroir. With its zesty and lively profile, it features bright notes of citrus, passionfruit, and gooseberry. The wine’s crisp acidity and refreshing finish make it an ideal companion for seafood dishes, light salads, or simply sipping on a warm day.

2) Kirkland Signature Series Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

Kirkland Signature Series Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

The Kirkland Signature Series Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon delivers remarkable quality and value. By presenting a sophisticated choice for those seeking an affordable yet luxurious Napa Valley wine.

Coming from the prestigious Oakville appellation, centrally located within Napa Valley. This wine boasts the region’s renowned elegance and complexity. This Cabernet Sauvignon presents a rich, full-bodied profile with notes of dark fruit, cassis, and well-integrated oak, supported by firm tannins and balanced acidity.

3) Kirkland Chablis Premier Cru

Kirkland Chablis Premier Cru

Another great choice if you are looking for a crisp and refreshing white Kirkland wine.

Originating from the Chablis Premier Cru vineyards in the Burgundy region of France. This wine captures the unique characteristics of the area’s terroir. Thus, exhibiting a vibrant and elegant profile. This Chablis Premier Cru showcases notes of green apple, citrus, and wet stone, with a refreshing minerality and bright acidity. 

Plus, this versatile wine pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, including seafood, poultry, and creamy cheeses.

4) Kirkland Signature Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

If you’re looking for a Pinot Noir that captures the charm and finesse of the famous Russian River Valley region, Kirkland Signature’s version is a great choice. It’s high-quality and affordable, making it a great value.

Sourced from the esteemed Russian River Valley in Sonoma County, California, this wine captures the region’s unique terroir, which is known for producing world-class Pinot Noir. The wine reveals a complex, medium-bodied profile with enticing notes of red berries, cherry, and subtle earthiness, complemented by smooth tannins and balanced acidity.

5) Kirkland Signature Cuvée du Terroir des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape

If you have never tried a Châteauneuf du Pape (CdP), this Kirkland Signature offers outstanding value. By providing wine enthusiasts with an affordable opportunity to savor a classic expression of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Hailing from the historic and famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation in the Rhône Valley of southern France. This wine embodies the unique characteristics and complexity of the region’s terroir. In addition, the red blend features a rich and full-bodied profile, boasting flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and warm spices, supported by firm tannins and balanced acidity.

Furthermore this wine pairs superbly with hearty meat dishes, such as braised lamb or grilled steak, and rich, robust cheeses.

6) Kirkland Signature Signature Series Stag's Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon

Another Napa Valley appellation that specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon, and this one does a good job representing the district.

The wine displays a rich, full-bodied profile with notes of blackcurrant, plum, and hints of mocha, supported by well-structured tannins and balanced acidity. Plus, its refined character makes it an ideal pairing for bold dishes such as grilled steak, braised short ribs, or roasted lamb.

As you can see, I’m a big fan of the Kirkland Signature Series that are typically in black wine bottles. So give it a shot if you see one!

7) Kirkland Signature Prosecco Rosé

Kirkland Prosecco Rosé

Probably my favorite Kirkland sparkling wine! This Prosecco Rose is produced in the Veneto region of Italy. And it showcases a fresh and fruity profile. The wine presents an elegant salmon hue, with lively notes of red berries, peach, and a hint of floral undertones, complemented by fine, persistent bubbles.

Plus, its refreshing and versatile nature makes it a perfect choice for a variety of occasions, from celebratory toasts to casual gatherings, and it pairs well with light appetizers, seafood dishes, or fruit-based desserts.

8) Kirkland Signature Series Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon

This wine provides wine lovers with an affordable taste of Napa Valley’s well respected Rutherford region.

The wine exhibits a rich, full-bodied profile with notes of black cherry, cassis, and a hint of Rutherford’s signature “dusty” minerality, supported by well-rounded tannins and balanced acidity. 

Lastly, its complex and sophisticated character makes it an ideal pairing for bold dishes. Try pairing with grilled steak, braised short ribs, and strong cheeses.

Summary

Kirkland Signature Wine is a testament to Costco’s commitment to offering high-quality products at affordable prices. With a diverse range of exceptional wines sourced from renowned wineries, it’s no surprise that this affordable brand of wines has garnered a loyal following among wine enthusiasts.

More About Costco!

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