What is Costco beer?

Answered by Dustin Gorski

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am thrilled to share my knowledge about Costco . Costco is known for offering a wide range of products at competitive prices, and their beer selection is no exception. However, it's important to note that Costco does not have its own brewery. Instead, they work with two reputable breweries to produce their Kirkland beer line: Matt and Gordon Biersch (also known as Hopfen Und Malz Brewing Co).

1. Matt Brewing: Based in Utica, New York, Matt Brewing has been in operation since 1888. They are the brewery behind the popular Saranac beers. Costco contracts with Matt Brewing to produce their Kirkland Signature beers for distribution in the Eastern part of the United States. Matt Brewing has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality craft beers, which is reflected in the Kirkland beers they create.

2. Gordon Biersch (Hopfen Und Malz Brewing Co): Gordon Biersch is a well-known brewery with locations across the United States. Costco partners with Gordon Biersch to produce Kirkland beers for distribution in the Western part of the country. Gordon Biersch has a strong expertise in German-style lagers and ales, and their attention to detail is evident in the Kirkland beers they brew.

Costco's partnership with these two breweries allows them to offer a diverse selection of beer styles under the Kirkland brand. Whether you're a fan of lagers, ales, stouts, or IPAs, you're likely to find a Kirkland beer that suits your taste preferences.

One of the benefits of buying Kirkland beer at Costco is the affordability. As a member-based warehouse club, Costco is able to negotiate lower prices with suppliers, which is often reflected in the cost of their products, including beer. This makes Kirkland beer an attractive option for those looking for good value without compromising on quality.

It's worth noting that the specific beers available under the Kirkland brand can vary by location and over time. Costco may rotate their offerings, introducing new styles or discontinuing others based on customer demand and availability. This keeps their beer selection fresh and exciting for customers.

In my personal experience, I have found the Kirkland beers to be of high quality and comparable to many craft beers on the market. The taste profiles are well-balanced, and the beers often exhibit the characteristics typical of their respective styles. Additionally, the packaging and labeling of Kirkland beers are clean and professional, reflecting the attention to detail that goes into their production.

Costco beer refers to the beers produced under the Kirkland brand, which is a private label owned by Costco. These beers are crafted by two reputable breweries, Matt Brewing and Gordon Biersch, and are distributed to Costco stores across the United States. Costco's partnership with these breweries allows them to offer a diverse selection of beer styles at affordable prices, making Kirkland beers a popular choice among beer enthusiasts.