Rumors were out that the newest vintage of the Kirkland Chateauneuf-du-Pape was hitting stores, and we luckily found it on our last trip.
As you can see in the photo below, it looks to be selling through pretty fast (and I didn't see any more boxes below the display case).
Good news right off the bat as we see the price go down actually from $19.69 with the last vintage, to now $18.99. This is the best price we've seen in many years as it had started to climb as high as $22.
Some similarities we expect year to year: the varietal make up is once again 70% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 10% Cinsault. Same winemaker as before too.
This has been a favorite of ours for many years. Here's a look back to our reviews going back to the 2009 vintage.
2022 93 points
2021 90 points
2020 90 points
2019 88 points
2018 90 Points
2016 90 Points
2015 89 Points
2014 88 Points
2013 93 Points
2012 91 Points
2011 92 Points
2010 91 Points
2009 91 Points
We lost access to some of those really old reviews a while ago when we switched platforms (probably for the better). Key takeaway though: solid reviews, high 80s, low 90s, every vintage.
As we get into the 2023 vintage, it seems familiar right away. The wine is a medium ruby in the glass with aromas of red and dark fruit surrounded by herbs and leather; medium plus in body with nice acidity, maybe a touch more than prior years.
Good hearty, earthy flavor; raspberry, blackberry, plum; licorice, clove and spice mid palate into a dusty dry and peppery finish.
This one is right on the mark once again, but perhaps not catching us quite as high as the 2022 93 pointer did. So 92 points from us this time around.
A great buy on a fantastic wine once again. Also a good cellar selection for those looking to put some bottles away.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 92 points (a Costco Wine Top Pick)
Costco item number: 777662
Availability: We buy our wine at multiple Costco warehouses around the Atlanta area. The best way to locate wines near you is by using the new Costco mobile app and search with the Costco item number we listed above.
Alc. 15%
Matt says
The Costco QPR Champion!
How many years are you thinking this could be laid down for? I assume the winemaker intended for it to primarily be consumed now by the masses, but with the lack of oak and huge tannins maybe the acidity will help carry it to further aging? No matter what its an insane bottle for 19 bucks. Cheers everyone!
Editor says
I agree, good now but could definitely go 5-7 years, might change a little with age but not all these Kirkland wines are built for the long haul.
You light enjoy this post from a few months back: https://costcowineblog.com/cellar-selection-2015-kirkland-signature-pauillac-bordeaux/
MMC says
Thank you very much for the heads up! It took some searching to find it, even with the help of a patient employee. Looking forward to enjoying this special wine throughout the year!
Doug says
I see this as "in stock" on the app at the two SC stores I frequent, three hours from home. But I want a case-before I head out do I call the individual store or is there a central Costco # to call for inventory inquiries?
Editor says
Call the store directly and ask about the stock with the item number at end of review. They’ll be able to tell you.
Doug says
Got a case, tried one so far. Same great QPR as previous years. Tasted young to me, and I didn't get the feeling the aging potential is there for this vintage. I usually would lay 5 or 6 bottles down. Darn, I'll just have to drink them.
Ashley says
I’m in SC and happy to pick stuff up for you near me when I see it
Brandon says
So glad to see you finally get your hands on this. I’ve tried 4 different bottles at this point, and they’ve generally gotten better each time. On my last bottle I swear it smelled like peanut butter and blackberry jam at some point. I think this may be a very ageworthy version.
Greg says
Our AWS group did a blind tasting on this CdP. We had tasted other GSMs that night. When I revealed it was Kirkland, many simply did not believe it, because of the quality and taste. It was a great moment for the non-believers of Costco's quality with wines.