Of all the Kirkland Signature wines I've had in the past year or so, this is among the ones I looked most forward to digging into (some of the KS Chateauneufs too, and the Signature Series Malbec was outstanding). 2012 was such a banner growing year for Napa and I figured the Kirkland Napa Cab for $19.99 would drink like something that cost much more. And it does.
I recently had the 2012 Chateau Montelana Cabernet at a dinner and thought it was outstanding. Since that wine is in such recent memory (and granted a step up in price) I am holding this wine against a pretty strong benchmark.
That said, this vintage of the KS Napa Cabernet is perhaps the best of the vintages of this wine that I've reviewed. It is a solid, well made wine that pours dark and inky with a huge floral nose that leaps out of the glass. It is full bodied with silky tannins; packs a healthy dose of dark fruit with dark chocolate notes and a long sticky finish, slightly dry and lasting. Classic Napa traits all over it.
For $20, I think this is a very good buy. The 2012 Montelana, priced slightly upmarket is a nice step up if you see a good price on it too (around $50 but I haven't seen it at Costco). And I think this Kirkland wine isn't too far behind.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 90 Points
Costco item number: 444410
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA
Dave Chalk says
This was available at my Costco a couple of months ago, and I agree completely with your assessment. This is a tremendous value at the price. It actually sold out in less than a week. Like most good Napa Cabernets it should cellar well, so we acquired some to have on hand for special occasions over the next few years. (I'm still looking for the Signature Series Malbec, which hasn't shown up yet.)
admin says
Thanks for the note and I'm with you on cellaring a couple of these. Do keep an eye out for that Signature series Malbec. It was delicious. Would love to hear your thoughts.
caligirl says
what's the alcohol percentage?
admin says
I don't remember off hand and did not buy any more yet. Will note when I get back to Costco.
tww says
14.6%