Costco is a go-to destination for bulk savings, and its alcohol selection is no exception. The warehouse giant carries a wide range of spirits, wines, and beers, including its private-label Kirkland Signature brand. While some Costco alcohol deals offer unbeatable value, others aren’t as great as they seem. Whether you’re looking for quality liquor at a bargain price or trying to avoid overpaying for a mediocre bottle, here are the best and worst alcohol deals at Costco.
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The 5 Best Alcohol Deals at Costco
1. Kirkland Signature Vodka (Best Budget Vodka)
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Vodka is often compared to top-shelf brands like Grey Goose, but at a fraction of the price. The standard Kirkland American Vodka costs around $13 for a 1.75-liter bottle, while the French Vodka—often rumored to be sourced from the same distillery as Grey Goose—sells for about $20. Many customers swear that the quality is nearly identical to high-end vodkas, making this one of the best alcohol deals at Costco.
2. Kirkland Signature Tequila Añejo (Best Tequila Deal)
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Tequila Añejo is one of the best values in the tequila section. Priced around $30 for a 1-liter bottle, it delivers the smooth, oaky flavors typically found in more expensive brands like Don Julio or Patrón. This tequila is aged and sourced from a reputable distillery in Jalisco, Mexico, making it an excellent choice for margaritas or sipping neat.
3. Costco’s Wine Selection (Best Value for Wine Lovers)
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Costco is one of the largest wine retailers in the U.S., and its selection offers some of the best values on well-known brands. From Kirkland Signature wines to premium bottles from Napa Valley, France, and Italy, Costco often undercuts traditional liquor stores by 10-20% on price. Their Kirkland Signature Napa Valley Red Blend and Kirkland Brut Champagne are particularly well-reviewed. If you’re a wine lover, shopping at Costco can lead to big savings without sacrificing quality.
4. Kirkland Signature Scotch (Best Budget Scotch Whiskey)
Whiskey lovers looking for a good deal should consider Kirkland Signature Scotch, particularly the Kirkland Signature 12-Year Blended Scotch. Priced around $40 for a 1.75-liter bottle, it offers a smooth, smoky profile comparable to well-known brands that cost significantly more. While it’s not a replacement for premium Scotch, it provides excellent value for the price.
5. Imported Beer Variety Packs (Best Bulk Beer Deal)
Costco offers a variety of imported beer packs at a significant discount compared to grocery and liquor stores. Brands like Heineken, Corona, and Stella Artois are available in large cases, sometimes costing up to 30% less than buying them elsewhere. If you enjoy imported beers, Costco’s bulk pricing can lead to major savings.
The 5 Worst Alcohol Deals at Costco
1. Kirkland Signature Spiced Rum (Mediocre Flavor, Better Alternatives Available)
While Kirkland’s Signature liquors are usually a good deal, the Spiced Rum is one that many customers feel is underwhelming. Priced around $20 for a 1.75-liter bottle, it lacks the complex spice and smoothness found in brands like Captain Morgan or Sailor Jerry. If you’re looking for a flavorful rum for cocktails, you might want to spend a little more on a better-quality brand.
2. Kirkland Signature Irish Whiskey (Not as Good as Jameson for the Price)
Costco’s Irish Whiskey is meant to compete with brands like Jameson, but many reviewers say it falls short in terms of flavor and smoothness. Priced at about $30 for a large bottle, it’s cheaper than Jameson but lacks the rich, full-bodied character that makes Irish whiskey so popular. For a little extra money, you may be better off choosing a well-known brand instead.
3. Costco’s Generic Hard Seltzer Packs (Underwhelming Compared to Name Brands)
Costco sells its own Kirkland-branded hard seltzer, but it hasn’t received the same praise as its other private-label alcohol. While the price is appealing at around $20 for a 24-pack, many reviewers find the flavors artificial and overly sweet compared to brands like White Claw or Truly. If you’re a hard seltzer fan, you may prefer sticking with name brands rather than opting for Costco’s version.
4. Domestic Beer Cases (Not Always the Best Deal)
While Costco has great prices on imported beer, its deals on domestic beers like Bud Light, Coors Light, and Miller Lite aren’t always the best. Many grocery stores and liquor retailers offer similar or better pricing on large cases, especially when there are promotions or discounts. If you’re shopping for domestic beer, it’s worth checking other stores before assuming Costco has the lowest price.
5. Certain High-End Liquors (Prices May Not Be the Best Available)
While Costco offers competitive prices on mid-range and budget alcohol, some of its high-end liquors don’t provide significant savings. Premium bottles like Macallan Scotch, Dom Pérignon Champagne, and Clase Azul Tequila are sometimes priced similarly to traditional liquor stores. Before buying expensive liquor at Costco, it’s best to compare prices at other retailers to ensure you’re getting a deal.
Costco is a great place to shop for alcohol, especially if you know which bottles offer the best value. The Kirkland Signature vodka, tequila, and Scotch provide top-tier quality at unbeatable prices, while their wine and imported beer selections consistently deliver strong savings. However, not every bottle is a bargain—some Costco alcohol deals, like certain rums, hard seltzers, and domestic beers, may not be worth the price. Before making your next Costco alcohol purchase, knowing which deals to grab and which to skip can help you save money while enjoying high-quality drinks.
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