If you’ve ever walked past Costco’s wine aisle without a second glance, you might be missing one of the best-kept secrets in retail. Tucked among bulk buys and house brands are curated wine gems—many selected by sommeliers and priced well below market value.
Why Costco’s Wine Section Is Worth Your Attention
Costco is the largest wine retailer in the U.S., with annual wine sales topping $2 billion, according to MarketWatch. But what sets Costco apart isn’t just volume—it’s quality. Many of its wine selections come from respected vineyards, private labels, and under-the-radar producers that offer serious value.
“Costco’s Kirkland Signature wines are often made by the same winemakers behind high-end labels,” says Laura Brennan, certified sommelier and wine educator. “You’re getting $30–$40 wine for under $15 if you know what to look for.”
Costco maintains razor-thin margins on alcohol (typically 10–15%, compared to 25–50% at other retailers), meaning you’re paying closer to wholesale than anywhere else.
Planning Your Costco Wine Run: Things to Know First
Before diving in, a little planning helps ensure you’re getting the best from Costco’s rotating wine selection:
1. Membership is (Sometimes) Optional
While most purchases require a membership, in many U.S. states—such as California, New York, and Arizona—local laws allow non-members to buy alcohol. Call your local warehouse to confirm.
2. Limited-Time Selections
Costco's wine inventory changes frequently. Some of the best-value bottles may only be available for a few weeks, especially those from smaller or boutique producers.
3. Check the Label Codes
Look for “Kirkland Signature” labels, which are often made in partnership with established vineyards (e.g., Rutherford Napa Cabernet or Sonoma Chardonnay).
6 Sommelier-Recommended Costco Wines to Try Right Now
These wines have been recommended by wine educators and sommeliers who monitor Costco’s evolving wine inventory. Prices and availability may vary by location.
1. Kirkland Signature Rioja Reserva (Spain)
Price: ~$7.99
Why it stands out: Aged for at least three years, this Tempranillo-based wine features complex flavors of cherry, spice, and vanilla.
“A textbook Rioja at a weeknight price.” – Eric Asimov, wine critic at The New York Times
2. Daou Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles, California)
Price: ~$19.99
Why it stands out: A favorite among wine enthusiasts, this bottle offers bold fruit, smooth tannins, and structure. Often $10–$15 cheaper at Costco than other retailers.
3. La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay (California)
Price: ~$13.99
Why it stands out: Creamy, citrus-forward, and balanced, it’s a widely respected California Chardonnay priced affordably at Costco.
4. Kirkland Signature Champagne Brut (France)
Price: ~$19.99
Why it stands out: Yes, it’s real Champagne—made in the Champagne region with méthode traditionnelle.
“You’d pay double elsewhere for a similar bottle,” says Brennan.
5. Villa Antinori Toscana Rosso (Italy)
Price: ~$12.99
Why it stands out: A Super Tuscan blend that pairs easily with pasta, pizza, or roasted meats. Balanced acidity with notes of plum and herbs.
6. Côte du Rhône by E. Guigal (France)
Price: ~$10.49
Why it stands out: One of the most consistent Rhône producers. This red blend offers spice, body, and bright red fruit for under $11.
Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping Costco Wine
- Ignoring vintages: Even with house labels, vintage variation matters. Look for recent reviews and drink-by suggestions.
- Skipping limited regions: Costco often gets small allocations of Barolo, Bordeaux, or Oregon Pinot Noir. These sell quickly.
- Not researching Kirkland bottles: The origins of Kirkland wines are often traceable. Use sites like Reverse Wine Snob or Vivino to decode who made it.
Industry Trends: Private Label Wine Is Growing
According to NielsenIQ, private-label wines like Kirkland Signature have grown over 12% year-over-year, driven by demand for quality at lower prices. Consumers are becoming more comfortable skipping flashy labels for better value—especially when trusted by sommeliers.
“Today’s wine shopper is more educated,” says Daniel Callen, a Napa Valley wine distributor. “They know that good wine doesn’t have to come with a $40 price tag.”
Final Thoughts: Should You Explore Costco’s Wine Aisle?
Absolutely. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want a reliable weeknight red, Costco’s curated wine selection offers one of the best cost-to-quality ratios available. With input from sommeliers and a steady rotation of global selections, there’s something for every palate—and every budget.
The key is timing, research, and a bit of curiosity. Visit often, don’t be afraid to try something new, and bring your smartphone to cross-reference bottles before you check out.
FAQs
Q: Can I buy wine at Costco without a membership?
Yes, in certain states. Call ahead to see if local laws allow alcohol purchases without a membership.
Q: Are Kirkland wines any good?
Many are made by reputable vineyards and are often rated well above their price point. Check wine review sites for ratings.
Q: Does Costco sell organic or natural wines?
Yes, though the selection varies. Look for certifications on the label, such as “USDA Organic” or “Made with Organic Grapes.”
Q: How often does Costco change its wine inventory?
Weekly to monthly. Popular bottles may sell out quickly and may not return for several months.
Q: Can I return wine to Costco?
Costco has a generous return policy, but alcohol return laws vary by state. Some locations don’t allow returns on alcohol at all.
Resources and Citations
- Costco Business Report – Annual Wine Sales
- MarketWatch – U.S. Wine Retail Trends
- NielsenIQ Private Label Trends Report 2025
- Wine Enthusiast – Costco Wine Picks
- ReverseWineSnob.com – Kirkland Signature Wine Reviews
- Interviews with Laura Brennan, Sommelier & Daniel Callen, Wine Distributor
