Costco, the beloved warehouse retailer, has entered the world of hard seltzers, making a splash in the crowded market and offering a delicious alternative to those who enjoy a light, refreshing adult beverage. With the increasing popularity of hard seltzers, it’s no surprise that Costco has decided to put its own spin on alcoholic beverages. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Costco’s hard seltzer selection, touching upon its flavors, ingredients, and what sets it apart from the competition.
Kirkland Signature, Costco’s private-label line, presents its Hard Seltzer, a carbonated and refreshing drink with a subtle alcoholic kick that is sure to quench your thirst. Made with natural flavors and containing just 100 calories per can, Kirkland’s version of the popular drink aims to rival even the most established brands in the market. Its light and crisp taste, coupled with a modest 5% alcohol by volume, makes it the perfect beverage for socializing, relaxing, or enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
Offering a variety of flavors in their mixed 24-pack, Costco’s Hard Seltzer caters to those who appreciate both fruity and bold tastes. From classic favorites like Lemon Lime and Grapefruit to the more adventurous flavors of Black Cherry and Mango, there is something for every palate. With such a diverse selection, Costco’s Hard Seltzer is poised to make waves in the ever-growing industry and become a go-to choice for avid seltzer fans.
Table of Contents
What Is Costco Hard Seltzer?
A Brief Overview
Costco Hard Seltzer, also known as Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer, is a popular alcoholic beverage sold at Costco stores. It is part of their Kirkland Signature line, which offers various high-quality products at affordable prices.
The hard seltzer category has rapidly grown in popularity over the years. Costco’s entry into the market provides an attractive option for their members who enjoy this type of drink. With a light and refreshing taste, Costco Hard Seltzer is perfect for those looking for a lower-calorie and gluten-free alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
Available in a variety pack, the Kirkland Hard Seltzer includes four flavors:
- Mango
- Black Cherry
- Grapefruit
- Lime
Each can of Costco Hard Seltzer contains:
- 5% alcohol by volume (ABV)
- 100 calories
- 2g of carbs
- 0g of sugar
- Gluten-free formula
Considering the casual tone of this piece, it is safe to say that Costco has made a successful foray into the hard seltzer market with its Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer. The flavors, reasonable pricing, and lower calorie content make it a popular choice amongst Costco members.
Flavors and Varieties
Costco Hard Seltzer offers a range of flavors to cater to different taste preferences. They feature both standard and seasonal flavors, providing variety for consumers to enjoy throughout the year.
Standard Flavors
Costco’s standard hard seltzer lineup includes the following flavors:
- Lime: A refreshing and zesty option, perfect for any occasion.
- Black Cherry: A bold and fruity flavor, a favorite among many hard seltzer drinkers.
- Mango: A sweet and juicy tropical delight that brings a little taste of paradise.
- Grapefruit: Tangy and tart, this citrus flavor is both crisp and invigorating.
You can find all four of these popular flavors in a variety pack, making it easy to satisfy everyone’s taste buds at your next gathering.
Seasonal Flavors
In addition to its standard flavors, Costco Hard Seltzer also introduces seasonal flavors from time to time. These limited-time offerings may vary based on the current season and trends, providing a nice change of pace for hard seltzer enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for these seasonal offerings in-store, and don’t miss your chance to try them while they’re available.
Taste and Quality Comparisons
Costco vs White Claw
When comparing the taste of Kirkland Signature (Costco) hard seltzer to White Claw, one may find that they have quite similar flavor profiles. Kirkland’s hard seltzer has a crisp, refreshing taste, just like White Claw. However, some drinkers might find the sweetness level in the Kirkland seltzer slightly more subtle than in White Claw. In terms of quality, both brands offer a solid choice for a hard seltzer option.
Costco vs Truly
Comparing Kirkland’s hard seltzer with Truly Hard Seltzer reveals some differences in taste preferences. Truly tends to have a lighter, more fruit-forward flavor, while Kirkland’s seltzer has a more noticeable sweetness. Nevertheless, Kirkland still manages to maintain a clean and refreshing profile. In terms of quality, both brands provide a decent hard seltzer experience, but some may prefer the slightly fruitier taste of Truly.
Costco vs Bud Light Seltzer
Costco’s hard seltzer also faces competition from Bud Light Seltzer. In a taste comparison, Bud Light Seltzer often has a more prominent fruit flavor, while the Kirkland brand might appear milder to some. However, both seltzers are generally of good quality and deliver a satisfying and refreshing drinking experience.
Nutrition and Ingredients
Calories and Gluten
Costco’s hard seltzer has 100 calories per 12-ounce can, making it a lighter option compared to other alcoholic beverages. It’s also favorable among those looking for a guilt-free indulgence without worrying about excess calories. In addition to being low in calories, Costco hard seltzer is gluten-free, which is a plus for individuals with gluten intolerance or those opting for a gluten-free lifestyle.
Alcohol by Volume
The alcohol by volume (ABV) in Costco’s hard seltzer is 5%, fairly standard for most hard seltzers in the market. This level of alcohol content provides a balance between enjoying the mild intoxicating effects of alcohol while still allowing you to relish the refreshing taste of hard seltzer.
In summary, Costco hard seltzer is a delicious and guilt-free beverage with 100 calories, a 5% ABV, and no gluten. It’s perfect for those seeking a lighter and more health-conscious alcoholic drink option.
Pricing and Availability
Costs at Costco
Costco Hard Seltzer is available in a variety pack of 24 cans, which typically costs around $17.99. This price is quite competitive and offers value for money, considering the increasing popularity of hard seltzers and similar beverages. The variety pack includes four different flavors, allowing you to indulge in a range of tastes.
Membership and Discounts
In order to purchase Costco Hard Seltzer, a Costco membership is required. The most basic membership costs $60 per year, giving you access to all Costco warehouses and the ability to shop for exclusive deals. Costco occasionally offers member-exclusive discounts, which may include savings on hard seltzer and other products.
With a Costco membership, shoppers can take advantage of additional discounts like:
- Special pricing on seasonal items or limited-time offers
- “Instant Savings” discounts applied directly to your purchase at checkout
- Exclusive access to Costco’s own Kirkland Signature products, often at lower prices than comparable brands
Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on your location and the time of year, so be sure to check your local Costco for current stocking and pricing information.
Popularity and Trends
Reddit Discussions
Costco’s hard seltzer has been a popular topic on Reddit, with many users, such as @lat3ralus65, sharing their opinions and experiences with the drink. Several threads focused primarily on the cost-effectiveness of buying a pack of 12 at Costco compared to other retailers like Walmart. Additionally, the low-calorie content and refreshing flavors make it a trendy alternative to light beer and vodka-based cocktails.
Summer Consumption
Summer is undoubtedly the prime season for hard seltzer consumption. People are looking for refreshing, low-calorie options to enjoy by the pool or at a barbecue. Costco’s hard seltzer fits the bill perfectly with its crisp flavors and affordable pricing. The drink’s popularity has soared during the summer months as customers search for a convenient and budget-friendly option for their gatherings.
Regional Availability
Washington
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Brand hard seltzer is now available in selected stores in Washington. You can find them conveniently packaged in 24-packs for your enjoyment. The hard seltzer delivers a crisp and refreshing taste, perfect for those hot summer days or a casual get-together.
Minnesota
Meanwhile, in Minnesota, you can also find the popular Costco hard seltzer at select locations. Get your hands on some of the Kirkland Signature Brand 24-packs to share with friends or family or to simply stock up for the weekend. Costco is committed to expanding its hard seltzer offerings, so stay tuned for new and exciting flavors coming your way.
Missouri
Last but not least, Missouri also has access to Costco’s hard seltzer. As with Washington and Minnesota, the Kirkland Signature Brand 24-packs are making their rounds in Missouri for residents to enjoy. Additionally, some stores now offer High Noon as a hard seltzer option, giving you even more choices to quench your thirst. Keep an eye out for new flavors and options as Costco continues to expand its hard seltzer lineup in the state.
