One of the things I love about Costco’s Kirkland line is that you never quite know what you’re going to get. Sometimes, they deliver bottles that seriously overperform for the price. Other times, well… you remember why Bordeaux usually costs more than nine bucks.
When I first poured this Kirkland Bordeaux, I’ll admit, I was not impressed. The wine felt closed off, the nose practically nonexistent, and I was already preparing to chalk it up as one of my least favorite Kirkland offerings. But I also know better than to judge a Bordeaux too quickly. So, I let it breathe.
And here’s where it got interesting: after an hour in the glass, it did start to come around—though only modestly. What finally emerged was a little dark fruit, some blackberry notes, and just a hint of black licorice. On the finish, a touch of spice, dry and quick. Still, the wine remained rather one-dimensional.
Now, for context: I studied in Bordeaux and have an enduring affection for the wines of the Médoc. Those bottles deliver complexity, character, and a sense of place. They also come with price tags that make sense for what’s inside. This Kirkland bottle, on the other hand, cost me just $8.99. At that price, it’s hard to be too critical.
So, what’s the takeaway? If you’re a Bordeaux fan like me and just want to have a little fun with an inexpensive model, sure—pick up a bottle. But if you’re looking to stock up on real value, you’ll find much more excitement in Spanish and Portuguese reds around the same price point.
Final Score: 85 points
Sometimes you get a steal, sometimes just a lesson. This one was a lesson.
