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by Ellen Blake
Costco is the number one wine retailer in the U.S.
Costco sells more wine nationally than anyone else because they offer a nice variety and great prices. While the selection is not tremendously broad, many of their brands are quite good, especially those in the under $20 range. And while you can purchase most of their wines at other stores for slightly higher prices, they also sell some delicious lesser known brands.
The Costco house brand: Kirkland Signature
Tips for Shopping for Wine at Costco
- You need to know the wine selection at Costco changes fairly often. The selection can vary by store based on the consumer preferences at that location. In addition, the popular wines sell out quickly and do not always return. The bottom line; if you see a good deal on a wine you want to try, grab it when you see it.
- If you like a particular wine and are a Costco member, check their liquor section before you buy elsewhere. Chances are Costco offers a better price if they have the item in stock.
- Pay attention to the two numbers at the end of a price. Any item with a price that ends in .97 means it’s marked down, likely because it is a close-out deal. Items with prices that end in .88 or .00 are also good buys as these numbers indicate display, returned or end-of-inventory items with a manager’s discount.
- Take note of price tags with asterisks which means the item won’t be reordered. When you see the asterisk on the price tag of one of your favorite products, you know it’s time to stock up!
Beyond123 IS039RW Spilled Wine Bottle Holder, Red and White
My KIrkland Signature Wine Favorites
Here are a few wines I like that I find fairly consistently in the store near me (please keep in mind I am not a wine expert, I just know what I like):
2018 KIRKLAND SIGNATURE CARNEROS PINOT NOIR- $9.99
This wine is medium in body with a little spicy, with notes of cherry, red licorice and a mix of red and dark fruit. It competes easily with more costly pinot noirs.
2018 KIRKLAND SIGNATURE RUSSIAN RIVER CHARDONNAY SONOMA $12.99
This chardonnay has a slight oak taste with flavors of green apple, apricot and a touch of orange liquor. It’s not as interesting as some other chardonnays, but is quite good for the price.
2015 KIRKLAND SIGNATURE RIOJA RESERVA – $7.99
This medium bodied wine has a subtle oaky flavor and hints of spicy cherry, strawberry licorice and vanilla. This is a great summertime because it’s not too heavy.
What do you think is the best costco wine? Please share your favorites in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!