Hello there, deal enthusiasts and imbibers! Enter the thrilling realm of Costco’s liquor section, where the allure of bulk discounts on spirits, wines, and beers proves too great to resist. Costco is a go-to place for loading up, and its Kirkland Signature line has gained a loyal customer base, many swearing it’s as good as the best-name brands. From the extensive selection of spirits to their in-house private-label selection, Costco has enough to keep even the most discerning drinker happy. Not all bottles are winners, however some are steals, and others may have you regretting the buy.
The stats speak for themselves: Costco’s booze sales exceeded $4 billion in 2018 and reached $5 billion by 2020. That expansion is based on a lean yet formidable set of around 20 Kirkland Signature spirits. Because Costco doesn’t produce its own liquor, it partners with high-quality distilleries, utilizing private labels to provide quality on par with popular brands at a reduced cost. It’s a savvy strategy that allows you to enjoy excellent drinks without breaking the bank.
Picture walking through Costco’s liquor aisle, scanning rows of glitzy bottles that vow great taste and bargain. You grab one, thinking it’ll make your next party or night in extra special. But then, that first taste isn’t quite right. It’s a disappointment many consumers know all too well. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide, sifting through critic and casual drinker reviews, examining taste tests, and throwing in our two cents. Our mission? To steer you toward the greatest Kirkland Signature bottles to pick up and the ones to avoid, so that each buy is a victory.
Top Kirkland Signature Liquors Worth Grabbing
1. Kirkland Signature Speyside Sherry Finish Single Malt Scotch
The Kirkland Signature Speyside 20-year-old Sherry Finish Single Malt Scotch stands out, frequently referred to as the jewel of Costco’s liquor catalog. Single malts that are aged tend to be scarce and expensive due to the “angel’s share” the liquid that evaporates over time. But Costco makes this gem available for about $80, a price that left The Seattle Times tasters singing its praises.
- Aging Process: Initially aged in used bourbon barrels, absorbing deep, classic flavors.
- Finishing Touch: Receives a six-month finish in Oloroso sherry barrels, adding rich, smooth notes.
- Regional Characteristics: Showcases unique traits of the Speyside region.
- Flavor Profile: Combines a mix of flavors for a delightful sipping experience.
You’ll taste dried fruits like raisins and figs, blended with sweet toffee, warm brown sugar, and creamy caramel. It’s a sophisticated, rich experience that makes every sip extraordinary. Some may find it understated considering its age, but its balance and price make it an absolute must-have for your cellar. Enjoy with dark chocolate or matured cheeses to release the sherry flavors, or keep it for a snuggle night with friends. It’s ideal for newcomers and veterans of Scotch alike, providing an experience of luxury at a fraction of the price.
It’s also great for small groups, where the complexity of the drink will inspire discussion. Serve it with a dash of water to unlock the flavors, or neat to get the full picture. It’s a great bottle that beckons you to taste the Speyside scotches in style without breaking the bank.
2. Kirkland Signature French Vodka
The Kirkland Signature French Vodka is a fan favorite, generally touted as the best value in Costco’s liquor store. It wins blind tastings, such as one conducted by The Kitchn’s expert group, against heavy-hitters like Grey Goose due to its crisp, subtly sweet taste. It is thought by many to be made in the same Cognac area and use the same pure Gensac Spring water as Grey Goose, making it crisp and delicate.
At about $23, it’s a fraction of the price of high-end vodkas sometimes a third as much as Grey Goose for the same amount. Drink it neat, over ice, or mix it into your go-to cocktails. Be sure to pick up the red-label version, which indicates the coveted French variety.
- Clean Profile: Ideal for infusions, allowing fruits or herbs to stand out.
- Subtle Sweetness: Enhances citrusy drinks like a cosmopolitan or vodka soda with a bright touch.
- Non-Overpowering: Complements other flavors without dominating.
- Versatile for Parties: Reliable for crafting large batches of cocktails.
- Premium Quality: Offers a high-end feel at an affordable price.
- Flexible Use: Suitable for both mixing and sipping, delivering premium vibes on a budget.
You can also experiment with it in creative cocktails, like a lavender-infused spritzer. Its versatility and consistent quality make it a go-to for casual nights or hosting friends, proving you don’t need to spend a lot for a great drink.
3. Kirkland Signature Blended Canadian Whisky
If you are a fan of Canadian whisky, the Kirkland Signature Blended Canadian Whisky is a hidden treasure that provides so much more than its price indicates. At approximately $22 half the price of Crown Royal it holds up nicely in blind taste tests, with BuzzFeed’s group being barely able to distinguish it from the name brand. The Booze Blog described it as smooth, sweetish, and an excellent value.
- Distinct Flavor Source: Canadian whisky’s rye content provides a unique flavor profile.
- Aging Process: Aged for six years in oak casks, enhancing its taste.
- Flavor Notes: Features vanilla, cinnamon, clove spice, and toffee.
- Sensory Experience: Offers a woody tingle with caramel, coffee, and cinnamon notes.
- Texture and Enjoyability: Full-bodied yet light enough to be easily enjoyable.
This whisky is perfect for a Canadian whisky sour or a Kirkland-and-cola twist on the classic Crown and Coke. Its subtle spice goes well with ginger ale, and it might smooth out even further if you age it for a while. It’s a good starting point for exploring Canadian whisky’s lighter profile without breaking the bank. Enjoy it with smoked meats or charcuterie for a tasty pairing, or add it to cocktails for a group its a great addition to any bar.
Its rye-forward character brings a gentle kick that is effective in simple and complex cocktails. Collectors may appreciate its potential for aging, while casual imbibers enjoy its friendly flavor. It’s a bottle that encourages you to play without breaking the bank.
4. Kirkland Signature Tequila Añejo
For those who like a richer, smoother tequila, the Kirkland Signature Tequila Añejo is a great discovery. At roughly $30 for a 1-liter bottle, it delivers the oaky richness of upmarket brands such as Don Julio or Patrón. Produced by an esteemed Jalisco, Mexico, distillery, it’s distilled from 100% blue agave and aged for at least a year in oak barrels, using traditional techniques.
- Aging Impact: Strong oak flavor and aroma derived from the aging process.
- Texture: Creamy, palate-coating texture.
- Flavor Profile: Custard-like richness from prominent vanilla notes.
- Enjoyability: Described as a pleasure to drink.
- Comparison to Others: Considered less complex than pricier añejos by some.
- Versatility and Value: High quality and affordable price make it ideal for margaritas or drinking neat.
This tequila deepens cocktails such as palomas or tequila sunrises, and chilling it a bit enhances its caramel flavors. It’s a great starting point for tasting aged tequilas, inviting you to test it during tasting evenings or with top-shelf brands. Its genuine manufacture makes it a guaranteed choice for boosting your tequila skills without breaking the bank.
You could also appreciate it in a peaceful moment, sipped slowly to enjoy its heat. It’s a bottle that is special but does not require a special occasion, so it’s perfect for casual or dressy environments.
5. Kirkland Ready To Drink Golden Margarita
When you crave a speedy, perfect cocktail with no fuss of mixing, the Kirkland Signature Ready-to-Drink Golden Margarita serves. This ready-mixed beverage is a gem in the burgeoning ready-to-drink (RTD) market, which was the leading alcohol category in 2021. It provides genuine flavor at a discounted price compared to many brands, which makes it a wise pick for effortless enjoyment.
- Ingredients: Made with zesty lime juice, cane sugar, triple sec, and high-quality tequila.
- Flavor Profile: Balances sweet and tart flavors with a bold tequila kick.
- Alcohol Content: Contains 12.7% ABV, similar to a glass of wine.
- Occasion Suitability: Perfect for casual afternoons or lively social gatherings.
- Value Proposition: A bottle offers comparable value to a single restaurant margarita.
This margarita is perfect for beach trips, barbecues, or relaxing nights in. Try it over ice with a salt rim for an old-school finish, or straight from the bottle for ease. Its all-natural ingredients steer clear of RTDs’ artificial flavor, which appeals to more healthy drinking habits. It’s a pleasant, hassle-free choice without compromising on taste.
You can also fill a pitcher for gatherings, and it’s simple to serve a large group. Its uniform flavor ensures you can rely on it for spontaneous gatherings or events.
Kirkland Signature Liquors to Avoid
6. Kirkland Signature Spiced Rum
Spiced rum evokes tropical flavors and strong personalities, but the Kirkland Signature Spiced Rum leaves consumers desiring more. Priced at approximately $20 for a 1.75-liter bottle, it’s affordable, but short on depth compared to Captain Morgan or Sailor Jerry. Spiced rum typically employs herbs and spices aged in oak barrels, but Kirkland’s version, marked “rum with natural flavors,” introduces flavorings and caramel color, which has the taste of taking a shortcut.
- Current Reviews Indication: Reviews from 2020 Reddit discussions highlight a formula change in the spiced rum.
- Unpleasant Undertones: The new formula introduces off-putting flavors described as charcoal, tobacco, and ash.
- Impact on Enjoyment: These artificial “fake flavors” make the rum difficult to enjoy, whether in cocktails or neat.
- Alternative Use Suggestion: It may perform better in cooking applications, such as a spiced rum cake.
- Overall Recommendation: As a beverage, it’s not the best option; consider trying other rums with natural spice blends for a more pleasant experience.
The batches can be inconsistent, so it can be a risk, and even in cocktails, the odd aftertaste can mess with things. You’re best off paying a little more for a rum that gives you the rich, lively flavors you want.
7. Kirkland Signature Irish Whiskey
Irish whiskey has a reputation for being smooth, warm-tasting, but this Kirkland Signature Irish Whiskey doesn’t live up to it. It complies with Ireland’s regulations aged three years in oak casks but lags behind Jameson brands. Recent reviews complain of a fierce alcoholic sting and watery body, lacking the honey, vanilla, and spice that characterize fine Irish whiskey.
- 2019 Review: Wine Enthusiast tasting in 2019 labeled it a good buy.
- Recent Commentary: Notes flavors of dried fruit, spice, and caramel, but these are overshadowed by raw booze.
- Unpleasant Experience: The harsh burn makes it unenjoyable neat or in cocktails like Irish coffee, where it overpowers other flavors.
- Recommendation: Spending more for a refined brand is advised for a smoother drinking experience.
It may be acceptable in simple mixed drinks, but high-end brands are worth it for fuller flavor. The fact that it is not deep makes it a hard sell to whiskey enthusiasts who desire a rich, rounded experience.
8. Kirkland Signature American Vodka
The Kirkland Signature American Vodka falls short of the French edition’s expectations. Available for around $17 in a 1.75-liter bottle, it is distilled six times from California corn and destined for a silky finish. But tasters, including our panel at The Kitchn, described it as bland, watery, and cutting, with strange flavors such as vitamins or chemicals.
- Cocktail Suitability: Suitable for highly flavored cocktails where the vodka flavor is masked.
- Performance Limitation: Falls short in cocktails where vodka is the primary flavor.
- Comparison to French Vodka: French Vodka offers better quality for a slightly higher price, providing a smoother, more pleasant drink.
- Recommendation: Not ideal for those seeking a refined, classy vodka experience; considered a skip.
Even in punches, its harsh edges can be obtrusive. For neat, clean vodka cocktails, opt for products that eschew these unpleasant notes and provide a smoother finish.
9. Kirkland Signature Silver Tequila
Whereas the Kirkland Signature Tequila Añejo pleases, the Silver Tequila is a letdown. Created from 100% blue agave and double-distilled, it ought to be silky, but most find it has a harsh, vegetal, and medicinal sting. Fine silver tequilas provide clear agave, floral, and peppery qualities, but this one’s alcoholic sting dominates.
- Price Appeal: Attractive due to its low cost.
- Quality Shortcoming: Lacks the quality needed for sipping or margaritas.
- Comparison to Alternatives: A superior silver tequila offers a brighter, crisper flavor.
- Value Recommendation: Worth spending extra for a better tequila.
- Final Verdict: Best left on the shelf due to its inferior quality.
In cocktails or shots, the bitterness can destroy the atmosphere. For a good, delicious tequila experience, choose a smoother version that provides quality and enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
Costco’s booze aisle is a treasure trove and pitfall. Let this guide walk you through it, from the amazing Speyside Scotch to the disappointing Silver Tequila. Avoid the losers and stick with the best for fantastic taste and value. Shop wisely, sip blissfully, and cheers to excellent finds!
