As lovers of good Scotch whiskey, we recently had the opportunity to try out Costco’s Kirkland Signature Scotch. We were pleasantly surprised at our findings and thought our fellow whiskey enthusiasts might be interested in learning more about it. Costco’s Kirkland brand offers an affordable yet impressive collection of liquors, and their Scotch whiskey is no exception.

In this review, we’ll dive into the taste profile and overall experience of sipping on this wallet-friendly Scotch whiskey. With its smooth and slightly sweet characteristics, along with notes of oak, apples, apricots, vanilla, and caramel, we believe this Scotch is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a quality spirit without breaking the bank.

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Costco Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey Overview

Product History

Our Costco Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey collection has evolved over time, thanks to our collaboration with independent bottler Alexander Murray & Co. We work hand-in-hand with this renowned bottler to source a variety of quality casks from distilleries across Scotland, enabling us to provide our customers with top-notch Scotch whisky options. Our offerings range from blended Scotch, to aged single malt Scotch, featuring Speyside, Highlands, and Islay regions, catering to a spectrum of taste preferences.

Price Range

Costco takes pride in offering its customers high-quality spirits at affordable price points. The Kirkland Signature Scotch Whisky line is no exception. Here are some examples of budget-friendly yet premium whiskies:

• Kirkland Signature Blended Scotch Whisky: Priced around $17 for a 1.75-liter bottle, our blended Scotch provides a smooth, slightly sweet, and oaky flavor profile, making it a great option for those new to Scotch or for mixing.
• Aged Single Malt Scotch: We offer aged single malt Scotch, like our Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, which has spent 18 years maturing in ex-bourbon and sherry casks. Despite its age and exceptional quality, this Scotch is priced at an incredibly reasonable $58.

As a major retailer, we understand the importance of providing top-tier spirits at competitive prices. By working closely with Alexander Murray & Co and Scottish distilleries, we ensure Costco remains at the forefront of accessible, high-quality Scotch whisky offerings.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

On the nose, we found this Kirkland Signature Scotch to have a lovely honey sweetness accompanied by fruity aromas. There’s a noticeable presence of vanilla and caramel, with a subtle hint of oakiness. The gentle touch of sherry and dried fruit adds depth to its aroma.

Flavor

Tasting this scotch, we noticed it’s quite smooth and slightly sweet. The fruity notes of apples and apricots shine through, while the palate is moistened by the taste of sherry and a hint of rye. There’s a delightful mix of flavors, including a touch of spice with cinnamon and clove, as well as a nice balance between the barley and oak.

Finish

The finish of this Kirkland Signature Scotch is relatively long and satisfying. It leaves a warm sensation with a lingering taste of honey, caramel, and a slight smokiness from the peat. There’s also a hint of chocolate and spice, which subtly reminds you of its presence.

Rating

Given the aroma, flavor, and finish, we would rate this Costco Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey as a solid purchase, especially considering its affordable price. It offers a friendly and enjoyable tasting experience, perfect for those looking to explore the world of scotch without breaking the bank.

Mixing and Pairing

When it comes to enjoying Costco’s Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey, there are several ways to enhance the experience through mixing and pairing. In this section, we’ll discuss the best mixers, cocktail suggestions, and food pairings to complement your whiskey experience.

Best Mixers

Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey has a distinct flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of mixers. When choosing mixers to complement the whiskey, we recommend the following:

• Ginger ale or ginger beer: The spice from ginger brings out the sweetness and warmth of the whiskey, creating a pleasing contrast.
• Club soda: A simple and refreshing choice, club soda allows the whiskey’s distinct flavors to shine through.
• Cola: Classic and always a favorite, cola pairs well with the caramel and toffee notes in the whiskey.
• Citrus juices: Freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice adds a zesty brightness that balances the whiskey’s richer flavors.

Cocktail Suggestions

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If you’re looking for a more adventurous way to enjoy your Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey, why not try it in one of these classic whiskey-based cocktails?

• Old Fashioned: Combine Kirkland Signature Scotch with sugar, bitters, and a splash of water, garnished with an orange twist.
• Whiskey Sour: Mix the whiskey with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of bitters, topped with an optional egg white foam.
• Rob Roy: A twist on the classic Manhattan, using Kirkland Signature Scotch instead of bourbon, and blended with sweet vermouth and bitters.
• Rusty Nail: A simple yet satisfying mix of whiskey and Drambuie, served over ice with a lemon twist.

Food Pairings

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The right food pairing can elevate your whiskey experience, and with Kirkland Signature Scotch, we suggest the following accompaniments:

• Cheeses: Aged cheddar, Gouda, or blue cheese make excellent companions for the rich and bold flavors of the whiskey.
• Charcuterie: Salty, cured meats like prosciutto and salami balance the whiskey’s sweetness, while smoked salmon adds a complementary smoky element.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate or salted caramel chocolate desserts accentuate the caramel and toffee notes in the whiskey.
• Grilled or smoked meats: Tender, juicy cuts of steak or barbecued ribs, when prepared with smoky, bold flavors or a touch of sweetness, create a harmonious pairing with the whiskey.

Exploring various mixers, cocktails, and food pairings will allow you to fully appreciate and enjoy the versatile flavors of Costco’s Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey.

Conclusion

In our experience, Costco’s Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey offers a good balance of quality and value for customers. As the world’s third-largest retailer and with its own independent bottler, Costco has the resources to source exceptional whiskies from Speyside, Highlands, and other renowned regions.

We found that the Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey is smooth and slightly sweet, with fruity notes like apples and apricots, and an aroma of vanilla and caramel. Its well-rounded flavor profile and pleasant taste make it not only enjoyable to drink but also an excellent choice for those looking for a wallet-friendly option.

Costco’s proprietary brand Kirkland Signature is known for offering quality products at an affordable price, and their Scotch whiskey lineup is no exception. With a range of options such as Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Tennessee Whiskey, and even a 23-year-old expression, there is something for every whiskey enthusiast.

Independently bottled by master distillers, the Kirkland Signature whiskies have even received praise from Forbes. This recognition further validates our belief in the brand’s commitment to delivering a quality drinking experience.

So, the next time you’re at Costco, don’t hesitate to pick up a bottle or two from their Kirkland Signature Scotch Whiskey collection. Whether you’re a fan of Laphroaig or Chivas, there’s something for everyone. And with Costco’s reputation and the quality of their Scotch whiskey offerings, it’s undoubtedly worth a try. Cheers!