Is Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano Actually A Luxury Bargain?

Parmigiano Reggiano, not to be confused with Parmesan, is known for being a bougie cheese, often costing around $8 to $12 for a 6- to 8-ounce wedge at traditional grocery stores, and even more at gourmet retailers. Unlike Parmesan, authentic Parmigiano Reggiano is higher priced because it's produced exclusively in designated areas of Italy under strict Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) requirements and then aged for at least 12 months before it can receive the designation. The Parmigiano Reggiano sold at Costco under the Kirkland Signature brand is aged for over 24 months, giving it time to develop a rich flavor and firm texture. Costco sells a wedge for around $18 and a 1-pound container of shreds for around $20, making it a more affordable way to bring home this premium Italian cheese. 

The long aging process is part of what distinguishes Parmigiano Reggiano from many other cheeses. As the cheese matures, it develops a firmer texture and more concentrated flavor, with small crunchy crystals sometimes forming throughout. Costco's Parmigiano Reggiano is considered medium-aged, striking a balance between a rich, nutty flavor and a firm, granular texture that's perfect for grating onto pasta dishes or soups and salads. 

These characteristics reflect the time and care involved in producing the cheese, helping establish its reputation as a premium ingredient. Yet, Costco's lower price makes it easier for shoppers to justify enjoying authentic Parmigiano Reggiano regularly rather than feeling like a splurge reserved for only eating sparingly or on special occasions.

Zanetti, the Italian cheese producer behind Costco's Parmigiano Reggiano, is one of the reasons the warehouse is able to make the cheese more affordable. Zanetti has 125 years of experience producing Italian cheeses, like Parmigiano Reggiano, and exporting them around the world. With this type of scale and established distribution network, the company is equipped to supply large retailers like Costco while adhering to PDO production standards.

Costco's business model also helps keep the price down. Its private-label Kirkland Signature can be cheaper than name brands because retailers can bypass some of the distribution and logistical costs associated with traditional branded products. Revenue from membership fees supports Costco's low-markup approach, while its large purchasing volumes give it leverage when negotiating wholesale prices with suppliers. A supplier like Zanetti is well-positioned to serve a retailer that needs to stock a popular product in substantial quantities, helping Costco offer authentic Parmigiano Reggiano at a competitive per-pound price to its shoppers. 

While availability of Parmigiano Reggiano at other supermarkets can vary by location, Costco regularly carries the cheese as a standard option. The result is a rare find that allows shoppers to regularly keep a luxury food item — and in a hefty amount — as a grocery staple.