The Truth About Who Really Makes Costco's Kirkland Beer

Kirkland products are a signature part of the Costco experience. Costco's Kirkland Signature products earned more than $39 billion in 2018, accounting for almost 1/3 of company sales that year (via BizJournals). Already known for reasonably priced beer, wine, and liquor, it should come as no surprise that the Kirkland line of artisan beers is a favorite, affordable option for many. 

While this beer line has been around for many years, it has gone through a few reboots over time. The Not So Professional Beer Blog noticed a change in 2015, adding a blond and brown ale to the artisan mix. And the company has shown a willingness to listen to the consumer, as evidenced when the company discontinued its line of Kirkland Signature Light beer in 2018, based on terrible reviews (via Business Insider). One unhappy consumer at RateBeer described the taste as "a urine-soaked diaper sitting on a piping-hot radiator."

Fortunately, the artisan brew mix is made by trusted veteran brewers.

The current 24 pack variety crate sells for $19.99 and offers a Brown Ale, Session IPA, America Pale Ale, and India Pale Ale. While these flavors have a different appeal to everyone, the value for the price is hard to beat. But who actually brews these beers? The answer may vary a little depending on your proximity to the East or West Coast. 

The Takeout reports that one brewer is listed as Hopfen Und Malz Brewing Co., which is a California operation owned by a much better-known company called Gordon Biersch. If you are on the East Coast, you will probably be enjoying brews from Matt Brewing in Utica, New York. These breweries make craft brews for Costco in addition to other clients. And while it might be slightly disappointing that there isn't a Costco-run brewery to tour, the cost savings from Costco's choices in manufacturing and distribution still pass on welcome savings to consumers. For most, it's a crisp, refreshing option to enjoy on any budget.