Wow! I hadn’t been to a Costco since I was a little kid, so this was an exciting challenge. @erinfitfoodie took me on an adventure to the Woodland Hills Costco to select 6 wines to try and we had a little too much fun during this excursion. Of course, I had heard about the food samples at Costco in the past but I didn’t realize how many there would actually be. I was so distracted by the cheese and crackers they were handing out that I almost forgot about the wine…almost! As for the wine selection at Costco – it was vast. I really think they have something for everyone at all different price points. I made sure to try at least one of their Kirkland Signature wines and I wasn’t disappointed. I think you should definitely consider trying something different next time you are at Costco and take the time to peruse the wine selection to see what you can find.
2021 Justin Sauvignon Blanco from Paso Robles for $12.49 - Lemon, peach, & passionfruit on the nose with citrus, green apple, and herb notes on the palate. I’m such a big fan of Paso so selecting this one was a no brainer for me. I’ve visited Justin Winery a few times during past trips. While they may have fallen out of favor with the locals up there (it’s a long yet fascinating story - bottom line being they have become a little too corporate over the years) I still love a Paso wine. When I am in a big box store like Costco it still feels like grabbing a bottle of an old friend for me.
2021 Fess Parker Chardonnay from Santa Barbara County for $12.99 - you will get tropical and stone fruit notes with this Chardonnay with a hint of butter and toasted oak. Fess Parker wine is another old friend! We love visiting Fess Parker and I highly recommend visiting during your next Santa Barbara wine country trip. While this Chardonnay has a little bit more oak and butter than what I typically reach for – I do enjoy it from time to time.
2020 Dr. Hermann Urziger Kabinett Riesling from Germany for $19.99 - This was a favorite! This off-dry Riesling was super refreshing with citrus and mineral notes and nice acidity! This one really surprised me! I was not expecting to love it as much as I did. Perfect for summer day-drinking!
2020 Martin Ray Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast for $14.99 - this is an affordable Pinot Noir with deep red fruit notes - you may want to let this one breathe just a bit before enjoying. While this was my least favorite of the bunch, it is certainly a serviceable Pinot Noir. Good to bring to a friend’s place when you are not sure what food is being served (I strongly believe that Pinot goes with everything). Also, if you are casually drinking with friends it can work well as a second or third bottle.
2017 Kirkland Signature Barolo from Italy for $19.99 - You can't beat this price for a Barolo! Excellent structure for the price - black cherry and dark spice aromas with raspberry and anise on the palate. I drink a lot of Barolo so even though it may not be the first one I would reach for…. I would definitely reach for it at some point!
2020 Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles for $49.99 - black currants and cherries on the nose. Ripe dark fruit on the palate with a hint of vanilla. Great value on this one since it’s often considered one of the best Cabernets in Paso. I’ve proclaimed my love for Paso enough already so I’ll just say – try this wine!