As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore various spirits and their producers. When it comes to Kirkland Signature gin, there have been speculations about its origin and the company responsible for its production. While Costco, the retail giant, does not openly disclose the producers behind their private label products, there are some clues that can lead us to make educated guesses.
One hint that points towards Diageo as the producer is the distribution channel for Kirkland Signature London Dry gin. Costco relies on a company called DC Flynt MW Selections to distribute this gin, and DC Flynt MW is a well-known distributor for Costco, exporting liquor to their warehouses and locations worldwide. This association with DC Flynt MW suggests a possible partnership with Diageo, as they are known to work closely with this distributor.
Diageo is a global leader in the production and distribution of alcoholic beverages, owning a wide range of popular brands such as Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Tanqueray. They have a reputation for producing high-quality spirits, making them a likely candidate for the production of Kirkland Signature gin.
Another aspect that supports the connection between Diageo and Kirkland gin is the similarity in flavor profiles. Many consumers have noted the resemblance between Kirkland Signature London Dry gin and Tanqueray, which is one of Diageo's well-known gin brands. This similarity in taste could indicate that Diageo is involved in the production process or that they share similar botanical recipes.
While these hints strongly suggest Diageo as the producer, it is important to note that this information is not officially confirmed by Costco or Diageo. The retail industry often relies on secrecy when it comes to private label products, and the true producer may never be publicly disclosed.
In the end, the question of who makes Kirkland gin for Costco remains somewhat of a mystery. However, the clues pointing towards Diageo as the producer, such as the association with DC Flynt MW and the similarities in flavor profile, make them a compelling candidate. Nevertheless, without official confirmation, we can only rely on these hints and our own taste experiences to form an educated guess.