While one of the least expensive Kirkland wines, this bottle has really come to deliver good value over the past few vintages, and we're happy to see that continue with the new 2023 vintage in stores now.
This is often a December arrival, as it is this year; last vintage was a little late, not arriving until January, at least near us.
The rock bottom pricing remains intact at $6.99 (up from $6.89). It's hard to find many good, drinkable and even enjoyable wines in this price range, but this Kirkland bottle fits the bill.
A look back at historical ratings shows a string of 87 points across the last few vintages.
2015: 87 points
2016: 87 points
2018: 85 points
2019: 88 points
2020: 87 points
2021: 87 points
2022: 87 points
This new 2023 vintage carries on that same trend, similar to the 2022 in many ways, and maybe a smidge better from our perspective.
Varietal makeup is the same: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. Producer as well: Chateau Petit Freylon.
Tasting notes follow a similar tune; dark ruby in the glass; dominated by dark fruit, blackberry, black cherry flavors; medium plus to full in body; notes of clove, leather and oak into the dry finish.
Nothing too fancy and nothing too shabby, this is a solid every day table wine at a fantastic price. We're going to bump it up to 88 points this time around.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 88 Points
Costco Item Number: 1184548
Availability: We buy our wine in Costco warehouses around the Atlanta area. The best way to locate wines near you is by using the new Costco mobile app and searching with the Costco item number we listed above.
Alcohol: 14%
Maty says
Like you said, it’s hard to find enjoyable wines for $7, but this one is a killer value Nd gets it done. Especially if Bordeaux is your preferred winemaking style. This bottle stands up head and shoulders above any new world $7 bottle I’ve had
Mike V. says
Just picked up a bottle to check out how this vintage is, thanks for the review. Always a solid bargain.
At the same price the Kirkland NZ Sauvignon Blanc is also such a screaming deal. It's the best white wine for the money available at every Costco, IMO.
M Harris says
Very disappointing this year!!! 2022 was wonderful!!
What happened?
dereck says
My preferred type of wine is Bordeaux and French is my favorite. I buy Italian and French by the case when they are at this price or under $12. Great buy for me.
Ted says
The 2023 is an abomination. I loved this wine especially for the price the last several years. This year not so much. Tastes like they tried to make wine out of cough syrup. I'd score it high 60s/low 70s
Greg says
This wine is atrocious. I can't believe you'd even bother to rate it.
Peter M says
quite good, fruit forward and a little grippy. not an expert on french wines, but better than the supermarket ones I got in france. and better than most red wines (mostly cabernet sauvignons) that I have bought in the $20 plus range, so $7 is a great deal.