Who Makes Costco's Kirkland Signature Barolo Wine?

It's no secret among Costco shoppers that the members-only warehouse chain sells some surprisingly tasty wines. In addition to popular picks like the Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and French Premier Cru Chablis, one robust red stands out for its high-end reputation and low price: Barolo. After all, the $22 Kirkland wine usually costs around $60 elsewhere. But who makes this beloved Costco wine?

The Kirkland Signature Barolo is reportedly made by Fontanafredda, a producer in Piemonte, Italy that's been making Barolo specifically since 1866. Under the Fontanafredda label, a bottle of Barolo typically costs about $41 to $60, nearly double to triple the Costco price. The 2022 vintage — beloved for its deep red hue, floral nose, and notes of black currant and licorice — is currently in stores, although limited quality (and perhaps popularity) occasionally puts the product out of stock. But because it's a signature part of the chain's wine collection, it's always due for a comeback.

Costco's Barolo is dry with notes of rose, vanilla, and forest floor, and it's ripe with spiced, fruity tannins. It also has a DOCG designation, which signals it meets strict, specific quality criteria and that it's been approved by a government-appointed tasting committee. It's the highest possible classification in Italy; Barolos must be aged at least three years to receive it. So, despite the low price (which has gone as low as $19.99 in some stores), Costco's Barolo is nothing to sneer at.

Experts say Barolo is one of the most expensive wines you should try at least once. It's nuanced, complex, unique, and stays deliciously intriguing for the long haul. Barolo is made exclusively from Nebbiolo, a highly tannic, full-bodied Italian grape that's akin to France's pinot noir.

Costco has been selling its Kirkland Signature Barolo since at least 2020, and many still swear by it. "One of my favorite economically priced wines. In the NY area, the pallet sells out quickly," one Reddit user wrote. "SOMM TV had a somm taste this and two other Kirkland wines, and they recommended this! Said it's not the deepest, darkest Barolo, but an excellent expression of Barolo Nebbiolo for the price," added another. Several agree that Kirkland wines are nearly always worth the buy, but vino connoisseurs suggest letting the wine air out or age for maximum flavor.

Once you acquire Costco's Barolo, you must decide what to pair it with. As a robust red, Barolo is a good match for rich meals that can hold up to its intensity. The wine's acidity can cut through all sorts of fatty, luscious dishes. Think lamb chops, steak, or braised beef (we recommend this osso bucco recipe you didn't know you could make at home, complete with lemony gremolata). Earthy, umami-rich foods, like duck or mushroom, are also great pairings, not to mention hard, sharp cheeses like aged pecorino. Many love Barolo with chocolate and chocolate desserts, too.