Last Updated on April 3, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Costco’s lips are tightly sealed on who their manufacturer is, so many wonder who makes Kirkland Scotch.
The thing that makes people intrigued more is how the price point of Kirkland Scotch whisky is so low considering that it is a well-aged and decent Scotch whisky.
Scroll down to find out who is the producer behind one of the best-selling spirits of Costco.
The Real Manufacturer of Kirkland Scotch
Costco is one of the largest retailers of spirits in the world, and like other retailers, they own a proprietary brand: Kirkland Signature.
Different distilleries are behind the production of Scotch whiskies, but Alexander Murray is the independent bottler in charge of sourcing the whiskies from Scotland.
Currently, four Scotch whisky expressions are offered by Costco: (1) Blended Scotch whisky, (2) 12 YO Blended Scotch whisky, (3) 20 YO, and (4) 22 YO Speyside Sherry Cask Finish.
Does Alexander Murray Make All Kirkland Scotch Whiskies?
Blended Scotch Whisky
Blended Scotch whisky is rumored to be produced by Macallan Distillery based on some similarities in the flavor profile.
However, based on Punch and Market Watch Mag, Murray & Co is behind the Scotch.
It can be true because every bottle of the Kirkland brand Scotch is labeled with Alexander Murray & Company.
Moreso, the independent bottler has been supplying spirits for Costco since 2007, so the chances are high. But what are the best whiskey brands at Costco?
12 YO Blended Scotch Whisky
Based on the Brand Manager of Murray & Co, the Master Blenders of their company crafted the 12 YO Blended Scotch whisky based on the tasting notes of Dewar’s.
However, it is clear on the label that Murray & Co is responsible for bottling the whisky.
The whisky source remains a mystery except for the broad geographic designation of where it came from.
Over the years, Murray & Co has been the main supplier of stores like Trader Joe and other brands.
20 YO Speyside Sherry Cask Finish (Single Malt)
The 20 YO Speyside Sherry Cask Finish (Single Malt) was released in 2019 and based on its label, it was bottled by Murray & Co.
Costco’s management did not disclose the whisky manufacturer. Still, the geographical location where the whisky is sourced is in Speyside.
The internet is going crazy over the 20 YO Speyside Single Malt Scotch because of its cheap price and blend.
While the company behind the whisky production is a secret, it is a smooth and good quality drink.
22 YO Speyside Sherry Cask Finish
Like the three Scotch whiskies mentioned above, the 22 YO Speyside Single Malt Scotch is bottled by Murray & Co.
Since Costco has a large inventory, the independent bottler draws whiskies from different distilleries to meet their needs.
Different Scotch whiskies will be blended in the Alexander Murray warehouse to create the Scotch.
The Single Malt Scotch has distinctive sweetness and is a good deal for its smell, wood notes, flavor, and price.
Read: Who’s Making Kirkland’s Gin?
7 Possible Distilleries That Make Kirkland Scotch Whisky
1. Caol Ila
Based on Thrillist, Alexander Murray works with Caol Ila to fill up bottles of private labels, so there’s a big chance that it is a possible secret distillery that makes Kirkland Scotch.
Caol Ila is situated on the North Eastern of Islay, known as the Islay Home of Johnnie Walker.
Johnnie Walker is the world’s most widely distributed Scotch whisky. [1]
2. Tomintoul
Tomintoul is another distillery that works in partnership with Murray & Co in filling bottles of private labels like Costco and other retailers.
We compared the taste and aroma of Kirkland Scotch and Tomintoul, which is similar, especially with the 20 and 22 YO Speyside.
Tomintoul is situated inside the Glenlivet estate, within the Speyside region. It was built in 1964 and has established a great reputation, so it is not surprising if it is one of the lines that makes Kirkland Scotch.
But who makes Kirkland whiskey for Costco?
3. Dalmore
Dalmore has a rich history and royal heritage way back in 1263- in the reign of King Alexander III.
Dalmore has set the highest standards in making whisky and based on the quality of the Kirkland brand, there can be a chance that Murray & Co sources whisky from the company.
There’s an exclusive bottle of Dalmore for Murray- Dalmore 19 YO “Alexander Murray.”
4. Mortlach
Mortlach also works with Murray & Co, and there’s a big chance that the line sources whisky from the Mortlach Distillery.
The distillery was founded in 1823, and until today, it is home to different bottles of Scotch.
Mortlach has a robust taste and aroma compared to other Scotch brands, and since the Kirkland brand has a nice taste and mild pepperiness, it can be possible.
Read: Kirkland Bottled-In-Bond Whiskey Guide
5. Glenrothes
Glenrothes has an exclusive partnership with Murray & Co. Actually, two of the vintage offerings of Murray & Co came from Glenrothes Distillery, so there can be a chance that it is one of the companies that makes Kirkland Scotch.
Glenrothes produces high-quality alcohol, and the company was established in 1879.
On the palate, Glenrothes can be slightly compared to the taste of the Kirkland brand.
In addition, it has a big inventory of Scotch, so there can be a chance that they supply for Murray & Co.
6. Tullibardine
Based on Thrillist, Tullibardine is another distillery that can supply Scotch whisky for Kirkland [3].
The Murray & Co’s Polly’s Cask is sourced from Tullibardine, so the whisky from Kirkland may be sourced in their company.
7. Macallan
Macallan Distillery is one of the alleged suppliers of whisky for Kirkland.
While the Alexander Murray label is in every bottle of whisky, the quality, taste, and aroma point out Macallan Distillery.
We compared the Kirkland with Macallan Distillery products and found quite a few similarities and some differences in texture and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who makes the Kirkland Scotch whiskey?
The production of Kirkland Signature Scotch whiskey involves collaboration between Costco and various Scotch whiskey distilleries, with the specific distillery responsible for producing Kirkland Scotch whiskey varying depending on factors such as region and availability. As a private label product under Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand, Kirkland Scotch whiskey is sourced from distilleries in Scotland renowned for their expertise in crafting quality spirits.
While Costco typically partners with reputable Scotch whiskey producers, the exact distillery behind Kirkland Scotch whiskey may not always be disclosed on the label. This flexibility allows Costco to curate a diverse range of Scotch whiskey expressions under the Kirkland Signature brand, selecting spirits that align with their standards for taste, quality, and value.
Costco’s commitment to offering high-quality products extends to their Kirkland Signature Scotch whiskey, ensuring that each expression meets or exceeds the quality of comparable branded products. By working closely with Scotch whiskey distilleries, Costco aims to provide its members with access to premium spirits at competitive prices, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Is Kirkland Scotch Macallan?
Kirkland Signature Scotch whiskey is not exclusively sourced from The Macallan distillery. While The Macallan is a renowned Scotch whiskey distillery known for its exceptional single malt whiskies, Kirkland Scotch whiskey encompasses a broader range of expressions sourced from various distilleries across Scotland.
While Kirkland Scotch whiskey may not carry The Macallan label, it offers comparable quality and craftsmanship, thanks to Costco’s partnerships with respected Scotch whiskey producers. Costco’s selection of Kirkland Signature Scotch whiskey reflects the diversity of Scotland’s whiskey-making regions, showcasing a range of flavor profiles and characteristics to cater to different preferences.
Whether it’s a smoky Islay single malt, a smooth Speyside blend, or a rich Highland dram, Kirkland Scotch whiskey aims to deliver an enjoyable drinking experience that represents the best of Scottish whiskey craftsmanship. While it may not bear The Macallan name, Kirkland Scotch whiskey upholds Costco’s reputation for offering high-quality products at exceptional value.
Who manufactures Kirkland brand?
Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label brand, encompassing a wide range of products across various categories, including food and beverages, household goods, electronics, and more. While Costco is responsible for the Kirkland brand, the manufacturing and production of Kirkland Signature products are outsourced to suppliers and producers worldwide.
Costco works closely with these suppliers to ensure that Kirkland Signature products meet or exceed the quality and value standards that Costco is known for. By leveraging their global network of suppliers and producers, Costco can offer a diverse selection of high-quality products under the Kirkland Signature brand, providing its members with exceptional value and quality across a range of items.
Costco’s commitment to quality extends to its Kirkland Signature products, which undergo rigorous testing and quality assurance measures to ensure customer satisfaction. Whether it’s Kirkland Scotch whiskey, Kirkland Prosecco, or any other Kirkland Signature product, Costco remains dedicated to delivering outstanding value and quality to its members worldwide.
Where does Kirkland get their whiskey?
Kirkland Signature whiskey, including Scotch whiskey, is sourced from various distilleries around the world. Costco, the parent company of the Kirkland brand, partners with different whiskey producers to create its Kirkland Signature line of spirits. The exact sources of Kirkland whiskey can vary depending on factors such as availability, production capacity, and flavor profile desired.
For Scotch whiskey, Kirkland sources its spirits from reputable distilleries located in Scotland, renowned for their expertise in whiskey production. These distilleries may include well-known names from regions such as Speyside, Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, and other whiskey-producing areas of Scotland.
While Costco typically does not disclose the specific distilleries behind its Kirkland whiskey products, the company works closely with its suppliers to ensure that Kirkland Signature whiskey meets or exceeds the quality standards expected by its customers. This approach allows Costco to offer a diverse range of whiskey expressions under the Kirkland brand while maintaining a commitment to value and quality.
What kind of Scotch is Kirkland brand?
The Kirkland Signature Scotch whiskey line encompasses a variety of Scotch whiskey expressions, including single malt Scotch, blended Scotch, and aged Scotch whiskey. These offerings may vary in flavor profile, aging process, and region of origin, providing consumers with a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences.
Kirkland Scotch whiskey may include single malt expressions sourced from specific distilleries in Scotland, showcasing the unique characteristics of individual regions such as Speyside, Highlands, or Islay. Blended Scotch whiskey, which combines malt and grain whiskies from multiple distilleries, is also featured in the Kirkland lineup, offering a balanced and approachable drinking experience.
Additionally, Kirkland Signature Scotch whiskey may include aged expressions, such as 12-year-old, 18-year-old, or even older whiskies, which have undergone extended maturation periods to develop complexity and depth of flavor.
Overall, Kirkland Scotch whiskey aims to provide consumers with high-quality spirits at competitive prices, drawing on the rich tradition and craftsmanship of Scotch whiskey production in Scotland.
Who makes Kirkland 22-year-old Scotch?
The specific distillery responsible for producing Kirkland Signature 22-year-old Scotch whiskey is not publicly disclosed by Costco, the parent company of the Kirkland brand. Costco’s Kirkland Signature line of spirits, including whiskey, is sourced from various distilleries around the world, with the company working closely with its suppliers to maintain quality and consistency.
While the exact origins of Kirkland 22-year-old Scotch whiskey may not be disclosed on the label, it is likely sourced from a reputable distillery in Scotland known for producing high-quality aged Scotch whiskey. These distilleries may include well-known names from regions such as Speyside, Highlands, or Islay, renowned for their expertise in whiskey production and aging.
Despite the secrecy surrounding the specific distillery behind Kirkland 22-year-old Scotch whiskey, Costco remains committed to offering consumers exceptional value and quality with its Kirkland Signature spirits range. The aged expression of this Scotch whiskey suggests a rich and complex drinking experience, appealing to whiskey enthusiasts seeking premium spirits at affordable prices.
Where is Kirkland Scotch distilled?
The specific distillery where Kirkland Scotch is distilled is not publicly disclosed by Costco, the parent company of the Kirkland brand. However, Kirkland Scotch is sourced from various distilleries in Scotland, a country renowned for its long-standing tradition of whiskey production.
Scotland is divided into several whiskey-producing regions, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. These regions include Speyside, Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, Campbeltown, and Islands. Distilleries in these regions produce a wide range of Scotch whiskies, from single malt to blended expressions, showcasing the diversity and complexity of Scotland’s whiskey heritage.
While the exact origins of Kirkland Scotch may not be disclosed on the label, Costco works closely with its suppliers to ensure that Kirkland Signature spirits, including Scotch whiskey, meet the company’s standards for quality and taste. This allows Costco to offer consumers a selection of high-quality Scotch whiskies under the Kirkland brand, while maintaining affordability and value.
What proof is Kirkland Scotch?
The proof of Kirkland Scotch whiskey can vary depending on the specific expression and bottling strength chosen by Costco and its suppliers. Proof is a measure of the alcohol content of a spirit and is calculated as double the percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV).
In general, Scotch whiskies are typically bottled at a range of proofs, with common ABV levels ranging from 40% to 46% (80 to 92 proof).
However, some cask strength or barrel proof Scotch whiskies may have higher ABV levels, often exceeding 50% (100 proof) or more.
Kirkland Scotch whiskies may include a variety of bottling strengths, depending on factors such as the aging process, flavor profile, and desired drinking experience. Costco aims to provide consumers with a range of options to suit different preferences, whether they prefer lower proof whiskies for sipping or higher proof expressions for bold flavors and intensity.
Who makes Kirkland’s Twelve Year Old Blended Scotch whisky?
The specific distillery responsible for producing Kirkland Signature Twelve Year Old Blended Scotch whisky is not publicly disclosed by Costco. Kirkland’s Twelve Year Old Blended Scotch whisky is sourced from various distilleries in Scotland, renowned for their expertise in whiskey production and blending.
Blended Scotch whisky typically combines malt and grain whiskies from multiple distilleries, allowing blenders to create a balanced and complex flavor profile. While the exact origins of Kirkland’s Twelve Year Old Blended Scotch whisky may not be disclosed on the label, Costco works closely with its suppliers to ensure that the product meets the company’s standards for quality and taste.
Despite the secrecy surrounding the specific distillery behind Kirkland’s Twelve Year Old Blended Scotch whisky, Costco remains committed to offering consumers exceptional value and quality with its Kirkland Signature spirits range. The aged expression of this Scotch whisky suggests a smooth and refined drinking experience, appealing to whiskey enthusiasts seeking premium spirits at affordable prices.
So, Who Makes Kirkland Scotch?
Kirkland Scotch is made by Alexander Murray & Co, and they source the whiskies from different Scotch whisky makers.
While Costco remains firm with not disclosing the source of their whisky, the tasting notes and texture points out Macallan and Dewar’s.
Experienced Costco shoppers will agree with us that every expression under Kirkland is relatively cheaper than other labels. Aside from its price point, the quality of the whisky makes it well-received by many.
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