The Best Wines at Costco

Costco is the number one wine retailer in the U.S. and just one look at their low wine prices should tell you why! Read on for our Complete Guide to Costco Wine.

The reason for those low prices is simply the tremendously slim margin Costco takes thanks to their membership model. (Basically they make their money on membership fees allowing them to keep product prices, including those on wine, very low.) Their selection isn't the broadest but they do tend to bring in some very nice wines, especially in the under $20 price point.

While most of the Costco wines are available elsewhere (albeit at slightly higher prices) keep your eyes out for deals on lesser-known labels as well. Inventory of wines will vary by market and even by store within a market so at times you can find some low production wines available in an individual store. (And if you see them, grab them -- turnover is very high so what's there today could very well be gone tomorrow.) Also in some states you don't even need a Costco membership to shop the store!

One other note: while they don't advertise it, typically any price that ends in .97 is a markdown. Furthermore, if there is an asterisk on the label that means it is a close-out and is not coming back. We've heard stories of some amazing close-out deals on wine. This is a great tip for shopping the rest of the store too — we’ve picked up some awesome deals on marked down items but they go fast!

Lastly, don't be afraid of the Costco house brand, “Kirkland Signature” wines. These are extremely high quality wines made by excellent wineries exclusively for Costco. In fact, many times these are almost identical to wines sold under the wineries original label, at 50% or less of the price.

Like to shop at Trader Joe's and Aldi too? Check our list of The Best Wines at Trader Joe's and our Guide to Aldi Wine!