In a world where the whiskey market is often associated with high-end boutique distilleries and rare releases, warehouse club giants like Costco and Sam’s Club, along with the much beloved Trader Joe’s, have quietly emerged as contenders in delivering exceptional and affordable whiskey. Contrary to the notion that quality and exclusivity always come with a hefty price tag, these retail giants offer their own house-brand whiskies that can rival some of the more sought-after bourbons. Woodjuice Collective aim to be one of the first to begin the trend of the “Un-unicorn”.
**Costco: Kirkland Signature Bourbon**
Costco’s Kirkland Signature line has become synonymous with quality, and their bourbon offerings are no exception. The Kirkland Signature Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon, for instance, has gained a devoted following among whiskey enthusiasts. Distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, this bourbon is known for its rich caramel notes, subtle spice, and a smooth finish that can easily stand up to more expensive counterparts.
What’s remarkable is that these Kirkland Signature bourbons often come with an impressively reasonable price tag. A bottle of Kirkland Signature Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon might be found at Costco for around $30-$35, offering an outstanding value for the quality it delivers.
**Sam’s Club: Member’s Mark Bourbon**
Sam’s Club also has its own house brand, Member’s Mark, which extends to the realm of bourbon. The Member’s Mark Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon has garnered attention for its complex flavor profile, featuring notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice. Bottled at a respectable 100 proof, it’s a whiskey that doesn’t compromise on strength or taste.
Priced competitively, often hovering around the $25-$30 range, Member’s Mark Bourbon provides an affordable option for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated sipping experience without breaking the bank.
**Trader Joe’s: Kentucky Bourbon Straight Whiskey**
Trader Joe’s, known for its unique and affordable offerings, has its own take on whiskey. The Kentucky Bourbon Straight Whiskey found on Trader Joe’s shelves is a hidden gem. Distilled and aged in Kentucky, this bourbon captures the essence of the region with a well-balanced flavor profile that includes notes of caramel, oak, and a touch of sweetness.
What makes Trader Joe’s bourbon even more enticing is its remarkably low price point. Typically priced under $20, this whiskey proves that quality and affordability need not be mutually exclusive.
**Why These Whiskeys Stand Out:**
1. **Quality Sourcing:** These warehouse clubs leverage their purchasing power to source high-quality bourbon from reputable distilleries, such as Heaven Hill and Barton 1792.
2. **Value for Money:** The prices of these house-brand whiskies are often significantly lower than their boutique counterparts, providing exceptional value for money. Sometimes with a starting price point of under $15.
3. **Surprising Complexity:** Despite the lower price point, these whiskies because of the quality sourcing often surprise drinkers with their depth of flavor and complexity, challenging the notion that exceptional bourbon must come with a premium price.
The world of whiskey has undergone a renaissance of sorts, with warehouse club and grocery store brands proving that outstanding bourbon doesn’t always come in a rare, highly sought-after bottle. Costco, Sam’s Club, and Trader Joe’s have successfully entered the arena, offering quality house-brand whiskies that stand toe-to-toe with some of the more celebrated bourbons. And though I can’t confirm, word is, Aldi in some states have a very decent house brand of scotch. So, next time you’re on a whiskey quest, consider exploring the aisles of these retail giants – you might just uncover an affordable gem that rivals the most coveted bottles on the market. Cheers!
Find our complete list here of the mentioned stores that might sell high proof spirits. https://woodjuicecollective.wordpress.com/links/109-2/
Woodjuice Collective 