Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Lydia Martin
If you like drinking hard seltzer, even on a normal working day, Kirkland Hard Seltzer at Costco will save the day. This brand has been hitting the shelves since its launch.
There are many major brands behind Kirkland, and perhaps you wonder who makes Kirkland Hard Seltzer at Costco.
We found the answer, so keep reading.
Table of Contents
ToggleThe Company Behind Kirkland Seltzer
Our research shows that Patco Brands is behind the Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer.
Many assume that Kirkland’s hard seltzer and the famous White Claw brand are made by the same company because they have comparable design packaging and taste.
This strategic collaboration with its manufacturer created another hit for Kirkland’s alcoholic beverage category. But how many White Claws can get you drunk?
What’s Patco Brands?
Patco Brands is a family-owned company that imports, distributes, and offers strategic marketing and production in Hood River, Oregon, and throughout the US.
It’s the company behind the Kirkland Hard Seltzer Variety Pack at Costco; that’s why Kirkland and Mystic Reef share the same four similar flavors.
However, Costco is not very open about its partnership with Patco Brands, unlike what they have with Kirkland brand beer.
But how many Truly Hard Seltzers can get you drunk?
Where Is Kirkland Hard Seltzer Made?
Although Patco Brands have a distribution center across the US, Kirkland Hard Seltzer Variety Pack at Costco is speculated to be made in Hood River, Oregon.
The hard seltzer Kirkland signature products are made with only 100 calories, 2g of carbs, 2g of sugar, and 5% alcohol content, comparable to other hard seltzer brands [1].
These hard seltzers from Patco are exclusively available at Costco. But you need a Costco membership to buy Kirkland Hard Seltzer and get huge discounts on the Kirkland brand hard seltzer and other beverages like beer.
Read:
- Who Makes Kirkland Gin?
- Who Makes Kirkland Prosecco?
- Who Makes Kirkland Wine?
- Who Makes Kirkland Beer?
- Who Makes Kirkland Chardonnay?
4 Kirkland Hard Seltzer Flavors
Mango
Kirkland Signature Mango Fruit-Flavored Hard Seltzer, created by Patco Brand, has a robust fruity flavor of ripe apricot, mango, and peach. This flavor is being compared to the White Claw brand.
But this spiked carbonated water is a 100-calorie drink with a dramatic entrance of full-bodied, acidic, fruity richness taste.
It delivers mostly natural flavors that entice your palate with no bitter flavor profile. It has a tart finish that provides a nice and refreshing balanced taste.
Black Cherry
One of the flavors of Kirkland Hard Seltzer is Black Cherry. Upfront, you will smell the bold flavor of the cherry bubblegum with notes of raspberry.
It gives you indulgence with all the sweetness, rich, and long-lasting flavor but has low carb content.
Grapefruit
Kirkland Grapefruit Hard Seltzer is made fragrant, flavorful, and fun. Not everyone like this fruit as a flavor in their drinks. But Patco Brands leveled up the game with this fruit for Kirkland, making it comparable to other brands like White Claw.
This hard seltzer has a fun flavor of lemon sponge cake, with hints of coconut, yogurt, and lime cordial. It has the aromas of lemon-lime soda, orange, and subtle papaya.
But how long do hard seltzers last?
Lime
The lime flavor in Kirkland Hard Seltzer is a perfect combination if you’re into a bubbly Margarita.
Similar to White Claw lime flavor, its lemon-lime soda aroma makes it a classic one that’s perfect for a timeless cocktail. The citrusy flavor of lime-spritzed mango and hints of pineapple makes it a tasty seltzer treat for everyone.
Read: Alcohol In Mike’s Hard Lemonade
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Kirkland seltzer any good?
Opinions on Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer, like any product, can vary depending on personal taste preferences. Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label brand, known for offering high-quality products at competitive prices. Their hard seltzer has gained popularity for its affordability and refreshing taste, making it a popular choice among consumers looking for a budget-friendly alternative to other brands.
Many people find Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer to be comparable in quality to more expensive brands, with a crisp and clean flavor profile. However, taste is subjective, and some individuals may prefer the flavors or carbonation levels of other hard seltzer brands. Ultimately, whether Kirkland seltzer is “good” depends on individual preferences and expectations.
What is the alcohol content of Kirkland hard Seltzer?
Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) content of around 5%, which is standard for most hard seltzer brands. This ABV level is similar to that of many beers and other alcoholic beverages, making Kirkland hard seltzer a popular choice for consumers seeking a light and refreshing alcoholic beverage option.
It’s important to note that the alcohol content of Kirkland hard seltzer may vary slightly depending on the specific flavor and recipe. However, the brand generally aims to provide a consistent drinking experience across its range of flavors.
How many companies make hard seltzer?
The market for hard seltzer has experienced significant growth in recent years, leading to a proliferation of brands and products. While exact numbers may vary, there are numerous companies producing hard seltzer beverages, ranging from established beverage companies to craft breweries and startups.
Some of the most well-known companies producing hard seltzer include:
White Claw (produced by Mark Anthony Brands)
Truly (produced by the Boston Beer Company)
Bon & Viv (produced by Anheuser-Busch)
Smirnoff (produced by Diageo)
Bud Light Seltzer (produced by Anheuser-Busch)
Corona Hard Seltzer (produced by Constellation Brands)
High Noon (produced by E&J Gallo Winery)
PRESS (produced by FIFCO USA)
Arctic Summer (produced by Polar Beverages)
Additionally, many regional breweries and distilleries have entered the hard seltzer market, offering unique and innovative flavors to cater to consumer demand. With the growing popularity of hard seltzer, new companies continue to enter the market, contributing to its diversity and expanding product offerings.
Who makes seltzer beer?
Seltzer beer, also known as hard seltzer beer or beer seltzer, is a hybrid beverage that combines the light and refreshing qualities of seltzer water with the alcoholic content of beer. Several companies produce seltzer beer, leveraging their expertise in brewing and beverage production to create innovative and appealing products.
One notable example of a company making seltzer beer is Anheuser-Busch, a leading producer of beer and other alcoholic beverages. Anheuser-Busch offers a range of seltzer beer products under brands such as Bud Light Seltzer, Michelob ULTRA Organic Seltzer, and Natural Light Seltzer. These beverages typically feature low calorie and low carbohydrate content, making them popular choices for consumers seeking a lighter alternative to traditional beer.
Other breweries and beverage companies have also entered the seltzer beer market, introducing their own variations and flavors to meet the growing demand for this category of alcoholic beverages. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, seltzer beer is likely to remain a prominent and dynamic segment within the broader market for alcoholic beverages.
Is Kirkland hard Seltzer same as White Claw?
Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer and White Claw are two distinct brands of hard seltzer, each with its own unique characteristics and offerings. While both brands fall within the category of hard seltzer beverages, there are differences between them in terms of flavor variety, packaging, and branding.
White Claw, produced by Mark Anthony Brands, is one of the most well-known and popular brands of hard seltzer on the market. It is known for its crisp and refreshing flavors, low calorie content, and distinctive slim can packaging. White Claw offers a range of fruit-infused flavors, including Black Cherry, Mango, and Raspberry, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences.
On the other hand, Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer is Costco’s private label brand, known for offering high-quality products at competitive prices. While Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer may share some similarities with White Claw in terms of its alcoholic content and carbonated water base, it typically offers a different selection of flavors and packaging options. Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer is often praised for its affordability and accessibility, making it a popular choice among Costco members.
Ultimately, whether Kirkland hard Seltzer is similar to White Claw depends on individual taste preferences and priorities. Both brands have their own loyal followings and offer unique benefits to consumers seeking a light and refreshing alcoholic beverage option.
What is Kirkland hard Seltzer compared to?
Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer can be compared to various other brands of hard seltzer available on the market. As a private label brand of Costco Wholesale Corporation, Kirkland Signature aims to provide high-quality products at competitive prices, appealing to consumers seeking value and affordability.
In terms of flavor variety and packaging options, Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer may be compared to other popular brands such as White Claw, Truly, Bon & Viv, Smirnoff, and Bud Light Seltzer, among others. These brands offer a range of fruit-infused flavors and slim can packaging, catering to different taste preferences and lifestyles.
Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer is often praised for its crisp and clean flavor profile, making it a refreshing choice for consumers looking for a light and enjoyable alcoholic beverage option. Additionally, its affordability and accessibility through Costco stores appeal to budget-conscious shoppers seeking value and convenience.
Overall, Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer competes in the broader market for hard seltzer beverages, offering a compelling option for consumers seeking quality and affordability in this popular category of alcoholic beverages.
Is seltzer alcohol strong?
Traditional seltzer water, also known as sparkling water or carbonated water, does not contain alcohol and is typically consumed as a non-alcoholic beverage. It is made by carbonating water under pressure to create bubbles, resulting in a fizzy and refreshing drink. Seltzer water may be flavored or unflavored and is often enjoyed on its own or as a mixer in cocktails.
However, hard seltzer is a different beverage altogether. Hard seltzer, also known as spiked seltzer or alcoholic seltzer, is a flavored carbonated beverage that contains alcohol. Unlike traditional seltzer water, hard seltzer is specifically formulated to include alcohol, typically in the form of fermented cane sugar or malted barley.
Is hard seltzer alcohol strong?
The alcohol content of hard seltzer can vary depending on the brand and specific product. However, most hard seltzer beverages have a moderate alcohol by volume (ABV) content, typically ranging from around 4% to 6%. This ABV level is similar to that of many beers and other light alcoholic beverages.
While hard seltzer may not be as strong as some other alcoholic beverages, it still contains alcohol and should be consumed responsibly.
The alcohol content of hard seltzer can add up quickly, especially when consumed in large quantities or combined with other alcoholic drinks. It’s important for individuals to be mindful of their alcohol consumption and to drink in moderation to avoid adverse effects.
Is hard seltzer hard liquor?
Hard seltzer is not considered hard liquor. Hard liquor, also known as spirits or distilled spirits, is a category of alcoholic beverages that includes liquors such as vodka, rum, whiskey, gin, and tequila, among others. These beverages are typically distilled to a higher alcohol content and are often enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into cocktails.
Hard seltzer, on the other hand, is a flavored carbonated beverage that contains alcohol but is not distilled in the same way as hard liquor. Instead, the alcohol in hard seltzer is typically derived from fermented cane sugar or malted barley, resulting in a lighter and more refreshing beverage compared to traditional hard liquor.
While hard seltzer and hard liquor are both alcoholic beverages, they differ in terms of alcohol content, production methods, and flavor profiles. Hard seltzer is often appreciated for its light and bubbly nature, making it a popular choice for casual social gatherings or outdoor activities.
Why is hard seltzer so expensive?
Several factors contribute to the pricing of hard seltzer beverages:
Ingredients: Hard seltzer typically contains purified carbonated water, alcohol, flavorings, and sometimes sweeteners. Quality ingredients, especially natural flavors and premium alcohol sources, can increase production costs.
Alcohol Content: Producing alcohol requires specific processes, including fermentation and distillation, which can add to production costs compared to non-alcoholic beverages.
Packaging: Hard seltzer often comes in sleek, convenient cans, which can be more expensive to manufacture and package compared to traditional bottles.
Taxes and Regulations: Alcoholic beverages are subject to various taxes and regulations, which can vary by region. These additional costs may contribute to the overall price of hard seltzer.
Brand and Marketing: Popular brands may invest heavily in marketing, branding, and advertising, which can contribute to higher retail prices.
Demand and Supply: High demand for hard seltzer, particularly during peak seasons or trends, can lead to increased prices due to supply and demand dynamics.
While hard seltzer may appear more expensive compared to non-alcoholic beverages like traditional seltzer water, the added cost reflects the production process, ingredients, and other factors associated with alcoholic beverages.
Why is it called hard seltzer?
The term “hard seltzer” distinguishes alcoholic seltzer beverages from traditional, non-alcoholic seltzer water. “Hard” in this context refers to the presence of alcohol in the beverage, whereas “seltzer” refers to the carbonated water base.
The term “hard seltzer” has become widely adopted to describe these alcoholic beverages, providing consumers with a clear understanding of their composition and purpose.
What is the top selling hard seltzer?
The top-selling hard seltzer brands may vary by region and market trends, but some of the most popular and widely recognized brands include:
White Claw: Produced by Mark Anthony Brands, White Claw is one of the best-selling hard seltzer brands in the United States. It offers a variety of fruit-infused flavors and is known for its low calorie and low carbohydrate content.
Truly: Produced by the Boston Beer Company, Truly is another leading brand in the hard seltzer market. It offers a diverse range of flavors and is popular among consumers seeking a refreshing and flavorful alcoholic beverage option.
Bud Light Seltzer: Produced by Anheuser-Busch, Bud Light Seltzer is part of the Bud Light brand family and offers a range of fruit-inspired flavors. It benefits from the widespread distribution and marketing reach of the Bud Light brand.
Bon & Viv: Produced by Anheuser-Busch, Bon & Viv is known for its unique flavors and sleek packaging. It appeals to consumers looking for a premium and sophisticated hard seltzer option.
Smirnoff Seltzer: Produced by Diageo, Smirnoff Seltzer offers a variety of fruit-infused flavors and benefits from the brand recognition of the iconic Smirnoff vodka.
These brands represent some of the top-selling hard seltzer options available on the market, each offering its own unique flavors, packaging, and marketing strategies to appeal to consumers.
So, Who Makes Kirkland Hard Seltzer?
Based on extensive research, Patco Brands makes the Kirkland Signature Hard Seltzer in their production facility in Hood River, Oregon.
Costco shoppers instantly fell in love with the Kirkland Hard Seltzer in four flavors: Mango, Black Cherry, Lime, and Grapefruit. It continues to soar against other brands, becoming a hit in the hard seltzer market.
Its lower and unbeatable price of 24-pack for around $17.99 (four-flavor) is quite comparable to the roughly $14.99 12-pack of White Claw without compromising its taste and proper packaging.
Pick up some next time at your local Costco Wholesale branch before they sell out again.
References:
- Costco sells Kirkland-brand hard seltzer, joining trendy drink market
- Costco selling cheaper version white