Introduction: Kirkland Bourbon And Costco
Kirkland Bourbon is a popular whiskey brand exclusively sold at Costco stores. It offers quality bourbon at an affordable price, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. But many people wonder, Who Makes Kirkland Bourbon for Costco? In this blog section, we will unveil the distillers behind Kirkland’s Bourbon and provide a deeper understanding of the brand.
Overview Of Kirkland Bourbon
Kirkland Bourbon is known for its smooth and mellow flavor, making it a versatile whiskey that can be enjoyed independently or used as a cocktail base. The bourbon is made with a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, and it is aged for at least four years in charred oak barrels. This aging process gives the whiskey its distinctive flavor profile and rich amber color.
Introduction To Costco
Costco is a well-known retail giant that offers a wide range of products, including alcoholic beverages. Costco is one of the largest retailers of alcoholic beverages in the world, with sales exceeding billions of dollars annually. The company’s proprietary brand, Kirkland Signature, includes Kirkland Bourbon.
Costco is committed to providing high-quality products at competitive prices, and Kirkland Bourbon is no exception. The brand’s success lies in its partnerships with renowned distilleries that produce the whiskey. While the specific distilleries are not always publicly disclosed by Costco, there have been some speculations and insights into the distillers behind Kirkland’s Bourbon.
Here’s a table summarizing some of the distilleries that possibly manufacture Kirkland Bourbon:
| Distillery | Possible Manufacturer of Kirkland Bourbon |
|---|---|
| Barton 1792 Distillery | Produced Small Batch, Bottled-In-Bond, and Single Barrel |
| Jim Beam | Previously produced Kirkland Bourbon |
| George Dickel Distillery | Previously produced Kirkland Bourbon |
| Heaven Hill Distilleries | Aging process details not disclosed |
It is important to note that the specific distillery and their involvement with Kirkland Bourbon can vary. Costco has partnerships with multiple distilleries to ensure the availability and quality of their bourbon expressions.
In the next blog section, we will delve deeper into the history and processes of the Kirkland Bourbon distilleries, providing a better understanding of who makes this beloved whiskey for Costco.
History Of Kirkland Bourbon
Early Sourcing From Jim Beam And George Dickel
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey has a fascinating history regarding its distillers. In the early days, Kirkland Bourbon was sourced from two major distilleries: Jim Beam and George Dickel. However, the details and mash bill for these early Kirkland Bourbon releases were not publicly disclosed.
Partnership With Barton 1792 Distillery
In recent years, Costco has partnered with the Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. The renowned spirits company owns the Barton 1792 Distillery, Sazerac, and is the oldest distillery still operational today. Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey is crafted at this historic distillery.
This partnership with Barton 1792 Distillery has allowed Costco to offer a range of high-quality and award-winning bourbon expressions under their Kirkland Signature brand. The distillery produces three labels under the Kirkland Signature brand: Small Batch, Bottled-In-Bond, and Single Barrel. Each expression showcases the unique character and craftsmanship of the distillery.
Here’s a table summarizing the different Kirkland Bourbon expressions:
| Bourbon Expression | Distillery |
|---|---|
| Kirkland Signature Small Batch | Barton 1792 Distillery |
| Kirkland Signature Bottled-In-Bond | Barton 1792 Distillery |
| Kirkland Signature Single Barrel | Barton 1792 Distillery |
The Kirkland Signature Small Batch Bourbon offers a beautifully balanced profile with oak, spice, caramel, and vanilla notes. This versatile bourbon can be enjoyed neat or with an ice cube to enhance its subtle flavors.
The Kirkland Signature Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon is a wonderfully balanced expression with delicate candied fruit, honey, and rye spice notes. It finishes with a lingering oaky note, evoking the scents of the Kentucky barrel warehouses where it aged.
The Kirkland Signature Single Barrel Bourbon is an excellent choice for those looking for a bolder and higher-proof bourbon. With strong notes of oak, honey, caramel, and dried fruit, it delivers a spicy rye finish that lingers on the palate.
These expressions highlight the craftsmanship and expertise of the Barton 1792 Distillery and provide Costco customers with a range of high-quality and affordable bourbon options.
Costco’s partnership with Barton 1792 Distillery has brought forth exceptional bourbon expressions under the Kirkland Signature brand, making them a great choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking quality and value.
Barton 1792 Distillery
Background And History Of The Distillery
Regarding ‘Who Makes Kirkland Bourbon for Costco?’, one of the key players behind its production is the Barton 1792 Distillery. Located in Bardstown, Kentucky, this distillery holds a rich history in the whiskey-making industry, dating back to 1879. It is one of the oldest distilleries in the United States.
Originally founded as the Tom Moore Distillery, Oscar Getz later acquired the facility and renamed it Barton Brands. Over the years, the distillery changed hands multiple times until it was ultimately acquired by the Sazerac Company in 2009. Under Sazerac’s ownership, the distillery was renamed Barton in 1792 in honor of the year Kentucky became a state.
Reputation And Awards
Barton 1792 Distillery has gained a respectable reputation for producing high-quality whiskeys. One of their standout creations is the award-winning 1792 Bourbon, which has garnered recognition in various competitions, including the Whiskies of the World and Los Angeles International Spirits competitions.
The expertise and craftsmanship of the distillery’s team shine through in Costco’s Kirkland Bourbon. While the exact mash bill for Kirkland Bourbon remains undisclosed, it is assumed to have a high-rye composition, comprising at least 25 percent rye alongside the standard 51 percent corn. The whiskey undergoes a double-distillation process for optimal purification and is aged in new charred oak barrels, ensuring a robust flavor profile.
Barton 1792 Distillery produces multiple expressions of Kirkland Bourbon for Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand. These include the Small Batch, Bottled-In-Bond, and Single Barrel editions. Each variant offers a unique tasting experience, ranging from smooth and balanced to bold and spicy, allowing whiskey enthusiasts to find a bottle that suits their preferences.
Overall, the Barton 1792 Distillery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship shines through in each bottle of Kirkland Bourbon. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a cocktail, Costco’s Kirkland Bourbon offers a delightful and affordable whiskey experience for everyone to enjoy.
Kirkland Bourbon Variants
Costco’s Kirkland brand has gained quite a reputation regarding affordable and high-quality bourbons. The Kirkland Signature line offers a range of bourbon expressions that have caught the attention of whiskey enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at the different variants of Kirkland bourbon and uncover the distillers behind these sought-after spirits.
Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey
Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey: This bourbon is produced for Costco by the Barton 1792 Distillery, owned by the Sazerac Company. Although the exact mash bill is not disclosed, it is believed to be a high-rye bourbon with around 20% rye content. With no age statement, this bourbon is categorized as a straight bourbon whiskey, aged for at least two years. Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey presents notes of caramel, oak, and spices like cinnamon and clove. It offers a smooth and sweet palate with hints of vanilla and a medium-length finish.
Kirkland Signature Small Batch Bourbon
Kirkland Signature Small Batch Bourbon: This bourbon is also crafted by the Barton 1792 Distillery. Similarly, the mash bill is undisclosed but is believed to be consistent with Barton’s high-rye mash bill. With no age statement, this straight bourbon whiskey delivers a slightly different flavor profile than the Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey. It exhibits caramel, oak, rye spice notes, and tropical fruit flavors like melon and banana. The finish is long, smooth, and sweet, with a touch of oak and spice.
Kirkland Signature Single Barrel Bourbon
Kirkland Signature Single Barrel Bourbon: This expression represents a unique selection of individual single barrels sourced from Barton 1792 Distillery. Each single barrel may exhibit slight variations, reflecting their distinct character. While the exact maturation period is undisclosed, the Kirkland Single Barrel Bourbon is likely aged for at least four years, adhering to the bottled-in-bond designation. This bourbon showcases dried fruit, honey, caramel, and vanilla notes. It offers a slightly oily texture on the palate with flavors of tropical fruit, pepperiness, and spices like cinnamon and clove. The finish is long, smooth, and sweet, with lingering caramel and oak notes.
Overall, Costco’s Kirkland brand has partnered with the Barton 1792 Distillery, owned by the Sazerac Company, to produce their reputable line of bourbons. Each variant has its unique flavor profile, ranging from traditional caramel and oak notes to fruity and spicy accents. With their affordable pricing and quality, Kirkland bourbons have become a favorite choice for both whisky enthusiasts and bargain-seeking shoppers at Costco.
Flavor Profiles And Tasting Notes
Characteristics Of Kirkland Bourbon
Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey is a popular choice among whiskey enthusiasts, offering a range of flavors and profiles. While the exact mash bill used for Kirkland Bourbon is not publicly disclosed, it is believed to have a high-rye content, typically around 25 percent, along with the standard 51 percent corn. The juice is distilled twice for optimal purification and aged in new charred oak barrels. Here are some general characteristics of Kirkland Bourbon:
- Strong notes of oak interlaced with honey caramel and dried fruit
- Pleasant spice and vanilla notes
- Smooth and well-balanced profile
- Varying levels of spiciness depending on the variant
Specific Flavors And Notes In Each Variant
Kirkland Signature Small Batch Bourbon
The Kirkland Signature Small Batch Bourbon, produced by Barton 1792 Distillery, offers a perfectly balanced profile with oaky notes, pleasant spice, and signature caramel and vanilla notes. This bourbon has a candied fruit note and can be enjoyed neat or with an ice cube to enhance its subtle notes and aroma.
Kirkland Signature Single Barrel Bourbon
The Kirkland Signature Single Barrel Bourbon, also produced by Barton 1792 Distillery, features strong notes of oak interlaced with honey caramel and dried fruit. It finishes with a long-lasting spicy rye finish. Each barrel is unique, showcasing the distinct character of the whiskey.
Kirkland Signature Bottled-in-bond Bourbon
The Kirkland Signature Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon, another offering from Barton 1792 Distillery, is known for its smooth and enjoyable taste. It has a balanced profile with creamy vanilla, caramel, and a hint of oak and rye spice. This bourbon is perfect for sipping neat and offers a friendly and uncomplicated drinking experience.
Here’s a table comparing the three Kirkland Bourbon variants:
| Bourbon Variant | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kirkland Signature Small Batch | Balanced and oaky | Pleasant spice, caramel, vanilla, candied fruit note |
| Kirkland Signature Single Barrel | Strong and fruity | Notes of oak, honey caramel, dried fruit, spicy rye finish |
| Kirkland Signature Bottled-In-Bond | Smooth and creamy | Creamy vanilla, caramel, oak, hint of oak and rye spice |
Kirkland Bourbon offers a range of flavors and profiles, providing whiskey enthusiasts with an enjoyable and affordable option. Each variant has unique characteristics, making it worth exploring and finding the one that suits your taste preferences at the mentioned source.
Comparison With Other Brands
Similarities And Differences With Other Bourbons
When it comes to Kirkland Bourbon, understanding its origins is crucial in comparing it with other brands. Kirkland Bourbon is produced at the Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. The distillery, the oldest operating distillery in the area, is known for its exceptional whiskey production. The Sazerac Company purchased the distillery in 2008, further solidifying its reputation.
One notable difference between Kirkland Bourbon and other brands is the secrecy surrounding the mash bill. Barton 1792, like many other distilleries, does not publicly disclose the exact mash bill used for Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey. However, it can be assumed that Kirkland Bourbon, like its sibling brand 1792 Bourbon, uses a high-rye mash bill, consisting of at least 25 percent rye alongside the standard 51 percent corn. This blend contributes to the unique flavor profile of Kirkland Bourbon.
In terms of aging, Kirkland Bourbon has aged inside new charred oak barrels for at least two years. This aging process allows the bourbon to develop complex flavors and a smooth finish. Each expression of Kirkland Bourbon, including Small Batch, Bottled-In-Bond, and Single Barrel, has its characteristics and flavor profile, providing options to suit different preferences.
Consumer Reviews And Preferences
Consumer reviews and preferences play a significant role in comparing Kirkland Bourbon with other brands. The Kirkland Signature Bourbon lineup has received positive feedback from bourbon enthusiasts for its quality and affordability. Many consumers appreciate the balanced profile and smoothness of Kirkland Bourbon, particularly the Small Batch and Single Barrel expressions.
Comparisons with other well-known bourbons, such as the Very Old Barton 100 Proof, Evan Williams 100 Proof, Knob Creek, and Old Forester Signature Bourbon, reveal that Kirkland Bourbon holds its taste and value. Each brand has unique attributes, but Kirkland Bourbon stands out for its consistency and competitive pricing. The availability of various expressions under the Kirkland Signature brand allows for exploring and discovering different flavor profiles.
Kirkland Bourbon has made a name for itself by partnering with reputable distilleries like Barton 1792 and George Dickel. The bourbon delivers a satisfying drinking experience that rivals other popular brands, making it a top choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking quality and value.
Continue reading to learn more about the pricing and availability of Kirkland Bourbon in different states and Costco locations.
(Note: The factual data regarding prices and distilleries is as of 2023 and subject to change. It is recommended to check with local retailers or Costco for the most up-to-date information.)
Who Makes Kirkland Bourbon For Costco? – Unveiling The Distillers Behind Kirkland’s Bourbon
Regarding Kirkland Bourbon, Costco’s popular private-label whiskey, there has been much speculation about ‘Who Makes Kirkland Bourbon for Costco?’. While the exact distiller of Kirkland Bourbon has not been publicly disclosed, some compelling clues point to the likely producers.
Distillation And Aging Methods
One distillery believed to be responsible for producing Kirkland Bourbon is Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Barton 1792 is the oldest distillery still operational today and is known for its award-winning 1792 Bourbon. Like its famed sibling, Kirkland Bourbon is made using a high-rye mash bill, which typically includes at least 25% rye alongside the standard 51% corn. The spirit is double distilled for optimal purification and aged in new charred oak barrels for at least two years.
Previously, Kirkland Bourbon was sourced from well-known distilleries such as Jim Beam and George Dickel before partnering with Barton in 1792. These collaborations allowed Costco to offer their customers quality bourbon at an attractive price.
The Role Of Sazerac Company
In 2008, the Sazerac Company acquired Barton 1792 Distillery, strengthening the links between Kirkland Bourbon and Barton 1792. The Sazerac Company is a prominent player in the spirits industry, known for its extensive portfolio of brands and commitment to crafting high-quality products.
Although the exact details of Kirkland Bourbon’s production remain undisclosed, the partnership with Barton in 1792 and association with the Sazerac Company reinforces the notion that reputable and esteemed distillers make Kirkland Bourbon.
While Kirkland Bourbon may not reveal its distiller outright, the whiskey’s taste and quality speak for themselves. With its smooth and flavorful profile, Kirkland Bourbon has garnered a loyal following of whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate its excellent value and enjoyable drinking experience.
In conclusion, Kirkland Bourbon for Costco is likely produced by Barton 1792 Distillery, a well-respected distiller with a rich history in the whiskey industry. The partnership between Kirkland and Barton in 1792, along with the involvement of the Sazerac Company, has undoubtedly contributed to the success and quality of Kirkland Bourbon. So, the next time you sip on a glass of Kirkland Bourbon, you can enjoy the craftsmanship and expertise behind this outstanding whiskey.
Public Perception And Reviews
Customer Feedback And Satisfaction
Kirkland Bourbon, sold exclusively at Costco, has gained popularity among whiskey enthusiasts for its quality and affordability. Customer feedback and reviews indicate overall satisfaction with the brand. Many customers appreciate the smoothness and flavor profile of Kirkland Bourbon, comparing it favorably to more expensive brands. The bourbon is known for its oaky notes, pleasant spice, caramel, and vanilla undertones.
Costco’s partnership with Barton 1792 Distillery, the oldest distillery still operational in Bardstown, Kentucky, has been a key factor in the positive reception of their bourbon. Barton 1792 Distillery has a reputation for producing award-winning bourbons, and their expertise is evident in the Kirkland Signature line. The distillery’s use of high-quality ingredients and its commitment to traditional distilling methods have earned them respect within the industry.
Critic Reviews And Ratings
While customer reviews provide valuable insights into the general perception of Kirkland Bourbon, it is also useful to consider the opinions of professional critics. Critic reviews and ratings can offer a more nuanced evaluation of the whiskey’s quality.
Unfortunately, limited information on specific critic reviews and ratings for Kirkland Bourbon is available. However, many critics have acknowledged the partnership between Costco and Barton 1792 Distillery, recognizing the distillery’s reputation and the potential for high-quality bourbon. The fact that Barton 1792 Distillery also produces the award-winning 1792 Bourbon further lends credibility to Kirkland Bourbon’s quality.
Overall, the public perception of Kirkland Bourbon for Costco is positive, characterized by customer satisfaction and recognition of the brand’s partnership with Barton 1792 Distillery. With its quality and affordability, Kirkland Bourbon continues to be a popular choice among whiskey enthusiasts.
FAQ: Who Makes Kirkland Bourbon for Costco? – Unveiling the Distillers Behind Kirkland’s Bourbon
Q: Where does Costco source their Kirkland branded bourbon from?
A: In early 2021, Costco announced that they would be sourcing Kentucky bourbon for their Kirkland brand from the 1792 distillery, also known as Barton.
Q: Are Kirkland spirits made by other companies and bottled for Costco?
A: Costco carries house brands of various items, including spirits. These spirits are made by other companies and bottled for Costco under the Kirkland label.
Q: What can you tell us about Kirkland Signature Premium Small Batch Bourbon?
A: The Kirkland Signature Premium Small Batch Bourbon is aged for seven years and has a proof of 103 (51.5% alcohol by volume). It is considered a good bourbon, offering a good deal for its quality.
Q: Does the same distillery make Kirkland Single Barrel as Kirkland Signature?
A: It is possible that Kirkland Single Barrel and Kirkland Signature could both be produced at the same distillery. However, further information regarding this is not provided in the available data.
Q: Is Kirkland Bourbon a product of Beam?
A: While hints on the label led some to believe that Kirkland Bourbon is a Beam product, it is not confirmed in the available data. However, it is mentioned that the bottle and label design is meant to appeal to Knob Creek and Woodford Reserve drinkers, brands that Beam Suntory owns.
Q: How does the price of Kirkland Bourbon compare to other brands?
A: Kirkland Bourbon offers a reasonable price for a 7-year-old, 103-proof bourbon, with a liter bottle priced at $19.99. It is considered a good deal in terms of quality and value.
Q: Do experts recommend Kirkland Bourbon?
A: Joseph E. Micallef, a master whiskey maker and expert, has mentioned that Kirkland Bourbon is of good quality and worth trying. The available data does not provide information from other experts’ opinions.
Conclusion: Kirkland Bourbon And Its Distillers
Recap Of Key Points
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey is made in collaboration with various distilleries. The earlier versions of Kirkland Bourbon were sourced from Jim Beam and George Dickel distilleries. However, in recent years, Costco has partnered with Barton 1792 Distillery and George Dickel Distillery to produce bourbon expressions under the Kirkland Signature brand. The Kirkland Signature Small Batch Bourbon is produced by Barton 1792 Distillery, while George Dickel Distillery makes the flagship Kirkland Bourbon.
The Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, is one of the oldest distilleries still operational today. They produce the award-winning 1792 Bourbon and have a long-standing reputation for producing exceptional bottles. On the other hand, the George Dickel Distillery, located in Tennessee, is known for its rich heritage and quality spirits.
Kirkland Bourbon follows the mash bill of Barton 1792, which typically includes 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley. The bourbons are aged in charred white oak barrels, resulting in a smooth and flavorful profile. The Kirkland Signature Small Batch Bourbon offers a balanced profile with oaky notes, pleasant spice, and hints of caramel and vanilla. The Kirkland Single Barrel Bourbon has a higher proof and showcases unique characteristics with dried fruit and spices notes.
Final Thoughts On Kirkland Bourbon And Its Distillers.
Now you should know ‘Who Makes Kirkland Bourbon for Costco?’. The Kirkland Signature Bourbon Whiskey lineup, crafted by reputable distilleries such as Barton 1792 and George Dickel, offers excellent options for bourbon enthusiasts. Each expression has its unique flavor profile, allowing consumers to find their preferred taste.
Costco’s partnership with these renowned distilleries showcases its commitment to providing exceptional quality at an affordable price. Whether you enjoy the smoothness of the Small Batch Bourbon or the boldness of the Single Barrel Bourbon, Kirkland Bourbon offers an enjoyable drinking experience.
Next time you shop at Costco, pick up a bottle of Kirkland Bourbon and savor the flavors crafted by these expert distillers. With their rich history and commitment to excellence, Barton 1792 and George Dickel ensure that each bottle of Kirkland Bourbon lives up to its reputation. Cheers to discovering great whiskey with Kirkland Bourbon!
Sources:
- Forbes: Why You Should Buy Costco’s Kirkland Signature Bourbon
- Liquor Laboratory: Who Makes Kirkland Bourbon for Costco?
Andre Lotz immigrated to the United States from South Africa almost 20 years ago. Still, he didn’t feel truly at home until he settled in Mobile—a city that reminds him of his childhood home of Fish Hoek on the southern cape of Africa.