Last Saturday, I stopped by Costco “just to grab coffee pods,” and you already know how that story goes. The moment I saw the Kirkland Signature Barolo back on the shelf, that familiar burgundy label practically waved me over. Every year, it arrives right around June or July, and after missing the 2018 vintage altogether, I’m always a little anxious it might disappear again. But there it was—the 2020—holding the line at $19.99.
That price still blows my mind. Barolo for twenty bucks feels like finding a Ferrari key in a Kia glovebox. And yet, here we are again—another vintage that delivers more than it has any right to.
I popped it open that evening with a hearty plate of mushroom risotto and grilled lamb chops. The wine poured a deep garnet, not too dark, with that signature Nebbiolo transparency. The nose hit first—rose petals, anise, mocha, and a subtle waft of vanilla. It’s one of those wines that makes you pause mid-conversation just to take another sniff.
On the palate, it’s classic Barolo through and through—medium-bodied but firm, with red cherries, ripe strawberries, and a dusting of spice and cocoa. There’s vibrant acidity that wakes up your tongue and a long, mocha-tinged finish that lingers just long enough to remind you how good a deal you got.
If I didn’t know this was Kirkland, I’d easily peg it as a boutique import sitting comfortably at $45-$60. It’s that polished.
One thing I appreciate about this series is the consistency. The 2015 through 2019 vintages have all clocked in around 92–93 points, and the 2020 keeps that tradition alive. It’s balanced, structured, and versatile enough to pair with everything from lasagna to a simple pizza night.
I’ll say this—if you see it, buy two. One for now, and one to stash for a few years. Barolo has that magical aging curve where it gets silkier and more aromatic over time, even at this price point.
So yes, Costco has done it again. Another vintage, another win. The Kirkland Signature Barolo 2020 is proof that you don’t need deep pockets to drink like a Piedmont prince.
