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Who Makes Kirkland Champagne? Answered (2024 Best Edition)

who makes kirkland champagne

Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Lydia Martin

Champagne indicates celebration, often seen on special occasions such as victory parties, weddings, and holidays.

Kirkland Champagne is the go-to celebratory drink by people who don’t want to break their bank, but who makes Kirkland Champagne? 

We did intensive research about Costco’s cheap yet good-quality Champagne, so read on.  

The Company Behind Kirkland Champagne

Kirkland Champagne

Kirkland Signature Champagne is crafted by a company called Manuel Janisson, and its HQ is based in Virginia.

Costco does not own a Champagne house, so it sources every bottle of Kirkland brand Champagne from the company that owns Janisson Champagne. 

The Kirkland Signature Champagne Brut is made in their vineyard in Verzenay, France. It has undergone a well-controlled multi-step process to ensure you get authentic Champagne. 

Kirkland Signature Champagne is crafted by a company called Manuel Janisson; the company’s headquarters is based in Virginia, and it runs in partnership with Claude Thibaut.

The Kirkland Signature Brut Champagne is not the best in the world, but it is a good deal for its reasonable price.

A certified level two sommelier reviewed the Costco Champagne and said that the soft mouthfeel, salinity, and brightness are highly recommended. 

Who Is Manuel Janisson? 

The Janisson Family winery began in the 1920s, and their family produces wines from the vines that Manuel Janisson grew in France.

The family tradition of winemaking continues with Manuel, his wife Marie Eve, and his business partner Claude Thibaut. 

Manuel Janisson headed to California and decided to team up with Thibaut to produce their sparkling wines.

Claude Thibaut and Manuel Janisson introduced their brand of Champagne to the US, and now their sparkling wine is well-accepted worldwide. 

However, you may wonder why you rarely find Manuel Janisson labels in the US.

It is because they often operate as a private label company wherein they produce the sparkling wine but bear the label of the company they are sold under (i.e., Kirkland label).  

How Do They Make Kirkland Signature Champagne?

How Does It Make Kirkland Signature Champagne?

Production Process

Kirkland Signature Champagne Brut undergoes primary fermentation and methode champenoise, wherein the yeast and sugar are converted to carbon dioxide upon secondary fermentation.

The production process of Kirkland Champagne happens in the vineyard of Janisson in California. 

There are six steps involved in the production process of Kirkland Signature Champagne. The grapes grown from allowed locations are used for the primary fermentation then the cellarmaster will blend the wines for assemblage.

The wine will undergo secondary fermentation with little yeast and sugar inside the bottles. 

Fun Fact: Champagne must come from the Champagne region in France. However, a handful of producers in California are allowed to use the name Champagne [1] because of complex historical connections. 

Maturation Process

Wine Bottles

After the secondary fermentation, the winery should mature the Kirkland Champagne for at least 15 months inside the bottles.

Once Costco’s Champagne has finished the maturation process, winemakers will disgorge the bottles and add 0 to 12g/L residual sugar to achieve the final taste.

Unlike other wines, all Champagnes from France and California must undergo 15 months of maturation inside a bottle before release. 

Fun Fact: Champagne must come from the Champagne region in France. However, a handful of producers in California are allowed to use the name Champagne [1] because of complex historical connections.

Where It Sources Materials

There are two designations of France’s Champagne region: Grand Cru and Premier Cru. Grand Cru Villages produces the highest quality wine, while Kirkland Champagne is made from grapes from Grand Cru Village. 

Based on the back label of the Costco Champagne, the sparkling wine is a blend of Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay grape varieties from Verzenay. 

The Grand Cru champagne is real Champagne, even if it is not made in the Champagne Region of France. 

Champagne wine must adhere to an extensive list of rules and regulations, so the consumer can be confident of the quality. One of the rules specified in the approved law is the grape varieties. 

The winery should only use Pinot Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Arbane, Petit Meslier, and Pinot Gris. 

Read:

Does Janisson Also Make Kirkland Signature Prosecco?

Kirkland Signature Prosecco

No, Janisson does not make Kirkland Signature Prosecco. While the winery is not disclosed, Misa Imports is in-charge of the imports of the Prosecco. The winery that makes Kirkland Prosecco is based in Italy, while Janisson is based in California. 

The Kirkland Champagne is non-vintage Champagne produced by Janisson and imported by DC Flynt. It bears the champagne appellation because it follows the long list of rules of Champagne regulation [2].

Does Kirkland Champagne Taste Like Janisson Champagne? 

Janisson Champagne with box on desk

Kirkland Champagne does not taste like Janisson Champagne. Based on our blind tasting, the two wines have differences in their tasting notes, even if they share the same winery. 

Manuel Janisson’s own Champagne Janisson is a blend of 30% Chardonnay and 70% Pinot Noir. On the contrary, the Costco version is a blend of Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. 

The Costco Champagne has hints of freshly baked bread, lemon, apricot, citrus, green apple, and floral notes. However, Janisson Champagne has toasty notes with hints of lemon zest and apples. 

Manuel Janisson owns Champagne Janisson bottles, but even though they have their own brand and produce other labels, they ensure they do not share similar tasting notes. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Kirkland Champagne made by?

Kirkland Champagne, bearing the Kirkland Signature label, is crafted by a variety of Champagne houses or wineries, showcasing a diverse array of styles and flavors. Costco, the retail giant behind the Kirkland brand, prides itself on offering high-quality products at competitive prices, and their Champagne selection is no exception. To maintain this standard, Costco often collaborates with esteemed Champagne producers, renowned for their expertise in crafting exceptional sparkling wines.

Costco’s meticulous approach to sourcing Champagne involves careful consideration of various factors, including reputation, quality, and value. The Champagne region of France, situated in northeastern France, is renowned for its meticulous winemaking traditions and stringent quality standards. Costco leverages its relationships with reputable Champagne houses within this region to procure outstanding sparkling wines that meet its exacting standards.

Where does Costco get its Champagne?

Costco’s Champagne selection originates from esteemed Champagne houses and wineries situated in the heart of France’s Champagne region. This renowned wine-producing area boasts a rich heritage and centuries-old winemaking techniques that have been perfected over generations. Costco’s commitment to quality and value leads it to partner with reputable producers who adhere to these time-honored traditions while also embracing innovation.

The sourcing process for Kirkland Champagne involves thorough vetting of potential suppliers to ensure that Costco members receive only the finest sparkling wines. Costco’s dedicated procurement team works closely with Champagne producers to select wines that embody the essence of the Champagne region, from the crisp minerality of Chardonnay to the rich fruitiness of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

By partnering with esteemed Champagne houses, Costco can offer its members an exclusive selection of high-quality sparkling wines under the Kirkland Signature label. These Champagnes reflect the diversity of styles and terroirs found in the region, allowing Costco members to explore a wide range of flavor profiles and expressions.

Who is Kirkland brand?

Kirkland Signature, commonly known as Kirkland, is Costco’s private label brand that encompasses a vast array of products spanning various categories. From groceries and household essentials to electronics and apparel, Kirkland Signature products are designed to provide Costco members with exceptional quality and value.

The Kirkland brand is synonymous with Costco’s commitment to offering premium products at affordable prices, making it a trusted choice for millions of consumers worldwide. Costco’s private label team meticulously develops and sources Kirkland Signature products, working closely with suppliers and manufacturers to uphold stringent quality standards.

Kirkland Signature products undergo rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that they meet or exceed the quality of national brands while offering significant cost savings to consumers. This dedication to excellence has earned Kirkland Signature a reputation for delivering exceptional value across a diverse range of products.

In the case of Kirkland Champagne, Costco leverages its extensive network of suppliers and producers to offer members access to high-quality sparkling wines at competitive prices. By partnering with esteemed Champagne houses and wineries, Costco can provide members with a premium Champagne experience under the Kirkland Signature label, further reinforcing its commitment to quality, value, and customer satisfaction.

Is Kirkland Prosecco good?

Kirkland Prosecco, part of the Kirkland Signature line, is generally well-regarded by consumers for its quality and value. Produced in Italy, Prosecco is a popular sparkling wine known for its light and fruity flavors, along with its effervescence. Kirkland Prosecco is crafted by reputable producers in the Prosecco region, leveraging traditional winemaking techniques to create a delightful and refreshing sparkling wine.

Reviews of Kirkland Prosecco often highlight its crisp acidity, vibrant fruitiness, and lively bubbles, making it an excellent choice for casual gatherings, celebrations, or everyday enjoyment. Additionally, Kirkland Prosecco typically offers excellent value for its price, providing Costco members with an affordable yet satisfying sparkling wine option.

What country is Kirkland brand from?

The Kirkland brand, known as Kirkland Signature, originates from the United States. Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label brand, offering a wide range of products exclusively available at Costco warehouse stores and through Costco’s online platform. While Costco is headquartered in Issaquah, Washington, the Kirkland Signature brand encompasses products sourced from around the world, including food, beverages, household goods, electronics, and more.

Costco’s private label team is responsible for developing and sourcing Kirkland Signature products, working closely with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure quality, value, and customer satisfaction. Kirkland Signature products are renowned for their affordability, quality, and wide selection, making them popular choices among Costco members.

What is the Kirkland Signature Champagne?

The Kirkland Signature Champagne refers to Costco’s private label Champagne offerings under the Kirkland Signature brand. Produced in the Champagne region of France, Kirkland Signature Champagne is crafted by esteemed Champagne houses and wineries known for their expertise in sparkling wine production.

Costco’s Champagne selection typically includes a variety of styles, including Brut, Extra Dry, and Rose, showcasing the diversity of flavors and expressions found in Champagne. Kirkland Signature Champagne is known for its exceptional quality and value, offering Costco members access to premium sparkling wines at competitive prices.

While specific details may vary depending on the producer and vintage, Kirkland Signature Champagne is generally well-received by consumers for its elegance, complexity, and fine bubbles. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, Kirkland Signature Champagne is a popular choice for celebrations, special occasions, or everyday indulgence, reflecting Costco’s commitment to offering high-quality products to its members.

Who bottles Costco Champagne?

Costco’s Champagne offerings under the Kirkland Signature brand are sourced from various Champagne houses and wineries in the Champagne region of France. While specific details may vary depending on the producer and vintage, Costco typically collaborates with reputable Champagne houses known for their expertise in crafting high-quality sparkling wines.

The exact identity of the producer behind Costco’s Kirkland Signature Champagne may vary from one bottling to another, as Costco works with different suppliers to curate its Champagne selection. However, regardless of the producer, Costco’s Champagne offerings are generally well-regarded for their quality, value, and diverse range of styles.

Which Champagne is the best?

The question of which Champagne is the best is subjective and highly dependent on individual preferences, taste preferences, and budget. Champagne is produced by numerous prestigious Champagne houses and wineries in the Champagne region of France, each offering its own unique style and expression.

Some Champagne enthusiasts may gravitate towards renowned luxury brands such as Dom Perignon, Krug, or Cristal for their exceptional quality, prestige, and craftsmanship. These Champagnes are often celebrated for their complexity, elegance, and aging potential, making them popular choices for special occasions or gifts.

However, there are also many excellent Champagnes available at more accessible price points, offering outstanding quality and value for everyday enjoyment. Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, Brut, and Rose Champagnes from reputable producers such as Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Bollinger are widely appreciated for their consistent quality, fine bubbles, and delightful flavors.

Ultimately, the best Champagne is the one that aligns with your personal taste preferences and budget. Exploring different Champagnes and discovering your favorites can be a rewarding journey of discovery, allowing you to appreciate the diversity and excellence of this iconic sparkling wine.

How much is Costco Champagne?

The price of Costco Champagne, sold under the Kirkland Signature brand, can vary depending on factors such as the producer, vintage, and style. Costco is known for offering competitive prices on its Champagne selection, providing Costco members with access to high-quality sparkling wines at affordable prices.

Costco’s Champagne offerings typically range from budget-friendly options to premium selections, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. While specific prices may vary by location and availability, Costco Champagne offerings are generally priced competitively compared to similar Champagnes sold through other retailers.

For specific pricing information on Costco Champagne, it is recommended to check with your local Costco warehouse or visit the Costco website, where current pricing and availability may be listed. Additionally, Costco periodically offers promotions and discounts on select Champagne offerings, providing Costco members with additional value and savings on their purchases.

Is Kirkland high-quality?

Kirkland, known officially as Kirkland Signature, is generally regarded as a high-quality brand. As Costco’s private label brand, Kirkland Signature offers a diverse range of products across various categories, including food, beverages, household goods, electronics, and more. Costco is committed to providing its members with excellent value and quality, and Kirkland Signature products are no exception.

Many Kirkland Signature products are crafted to meet or exceed the quality standards of national brands while offering significant cost savings to consumers. Costco’s private label team works closely with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure that Kirkland Signature products are made from premium ingredients, adhere to stringent quality controls, and deliver exceptional value.

While Kirkland Signature products are often competitively priced compared to national brands, they are renowned for their quality, reliability, and affordability. Costco’s commitment to quality assurance and customer satisfaction further enhances the reputation of the Kirkland brand as a trusted choice for consumers seeking high-quality products at reasonable prices.

Is Kirkland a cheap brand?

While Kirkland Signature products are often competitively priced compared to national brands, the term “cheap” may not accurately describe the brand’s positioning. Instead, Kirkland is best described as a value-oriented brand that offers high-quality products at affordable prices.

Costco’s private label team works diligently to ensure that Kirkland Signature products deliver exceptional value to consumers by offering premium quality at a lower cost. By leveraging Costco’s purchasing power, streamlined supply chain, and strategic partnerships with suppliers, Kirkland Signature products are able to achieve cost savings without compromising on quality.

Many consumers appreciate the value proposition offered by Kirkland Signature products, as they can enjoy premium-quality items at a fraction of the cost of comparable national brands. Whether it’s food, beverages, household essentials, or electronics, Kirkland Signature products are designed to provide Costco members with exceptional value without breaking the bank.

So, Who Makes Kirkland Champagne?

Manuel Janisson makes Kirkland Champagne for the Costco warehouse.

The wine produced by Janisson came from Verzenay, France, so Kirkland Champagne is considered real stuff.

It is well-received by many because of its amazing tasting notes and affordable price. 

Contrary to the belief that wines priced below $20 are of the lowest quality, the Kirkland Champagne is made of grapes from Grand Cru, which guarantees the highest quality. 

Each bottle is made through a rigorous process, and you should try one on your next special occasion.

References:

  1. Fine Wine 15 story
  2. 27 CFR § 4.21 – The standards of identity.
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