Another Costco win? The 2023 Kirkland Vacqueyras – Review

Last year’s release of the 2022 Kirkland Vacqueyras was a huge winner. In fact, I bought an entire case of it and rated it one of the best value-for-money wines released in 2024. I scored it 91/100 points.

So needless to say, the 2023 vintage has big shoes to fill. So how is it?

Nose:
Strawberry, rhubarb, anise, and black currants. Some bay leaf, a touch of oregano, and smoke. A little oak, but not overwhelming.

Palate: Excessively iron-rich from start to finish. Some red fruit, white pepper, and olive brine. Hints of liquorice on exhale. Medium acidity. Medium-full, rough tannins.

The nose is fun for a wine at this price point, and it does feel regionally evoking. I think most could blind this and immediately call it Grenache from the Rhône. Not overly complex, but plenty enjoyable.

The palate is less impressive and falls short of the expectations from last year’s vintage. The finish is short-medium in length and a little flat. However, the biggest knock for me is that the alcohol is poorly integrated, and the acidity is a little haphazard. On immediate pop and pour, this wine was a little volatile. It took the better part of a day to relax and open up, even after a double decant. This shows it’s best at cellar temp.

Costco continues to put out wonderful wines via their private label, and this is a great example of their continued commitment to value for money. While this year’s release is not as good as the 2022 vintage, I am still impressed by this bottle and would recommend it. This wine is a great weekday wine. Wonderful to cook with or to serve to guests who might not be wine connoisseurs. Bring this to the neighborhood BBQ and I would happily share a glass.
Cheers!

Color: Bright transparent ruby

14.5% ABV (felt every bit of it)

80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre

2023 vintage – $11.97

88/100 points