Costco Shoppers Should Watch Out For These 5 Bourbons

Costco Shoppers Should Watch Out For These 5 Bourbons

Although Costco is well-known for its affordable bulk purchases, the shop has also entered the luxury sector, selling things like a bottle of scotch at $30,000 and even a 54-year-old whiskey that costs more than certain cars in 2022. Fortunately, these premium costs are uncommon because Costco usually prioritizes discounts. Although not all Kirkland liquors are popular or affordable, many high-end spirits are worth purchasing, particularly for those who enjoy bourbon. With selections ranging from single-barrel types to uncommon decade-old reserves, Costco is the go-to source for premium bourbons for a fraction of the market price. Astute consumers can save hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars by buying from Costco instead of traditional or online merchants.

1. Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon

Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon is a standout choice for whiskey lovers, featuring a delightful blend of sweet honey, woody white pepper, and bright citrus. Launched in 1984, it made history as the first commercially sold single-barrel bourbon, solidifying Blanton's place in distillery lore and setting the standard for premium bourbon. Its reputation and innovative offerings have only grown over the years, making it a beloved name among whiskey enthusiasts. While the single-barrel collection can cost nearly $200 online, Reddit users have spotted it at Costco for as low as $57. One user shared their excitement, saying they'd found it for $220 in Texas after years of searching, while another added that Blanton's is so rare it’s hard to find, even near the distillery. If you come across a bottle at Costco, don't hesitate to grab it — it’s a rare find at an unbeatable price!

King of Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon

Founded in Kentucky in 1881, this bourbon whiskey brand has maintained its reputation as a premium label for nearly 150 years. In 2024, the company produced over 5,000 bottles, though annual output varies due to the limited number of barrels available. With no rush to bottle, the extended aging process enhances the quality, as showcased by the 2024 edition’s rich flavor profile featuring vanilla, mahogany, molasses, and toasted nuts. This release has further elevated the brand’s prestige and was even spotted in Costco warehouses in early 2025. One fortunate shopper shared on Reddit that they scored a legendary 16-year-old bottle of King of Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon at a California Costco for $260 (pre-tax). Sound steep? A similar, slightly less rare bottle sells for $2,000 at Blackwell’s. Another Redditor called it "a once-in-a-lifetime kind of find." While you might not come across this specific batch, keep an eye out — you could still strike gold with a King of Kentucky bottle at your local Costco.

Booker's Bourbon

Selling for up to $240 through online retailers, Booker's Bourbon created a stir among Costco fans on Reddit when it appeared on warehouse shelves. One Redditor shared that although the Naperville, Illinois location had limited quantities, they managed to score a bottle for just $78 — a significant bargain. Known for its unfiltered, small-batch craftsmanship, Booker's is a rare and powerful collector's item. Bottled at cask strength, this uncut bourbon boasts an intense flavor profile tailored for seasoned whiskey enthusiasts. The sought-after Apprentice Batch from February 2023, characterized by its smoky palate and layered aromas of oak, nuts, and caramel, was spotted in several Midwestern Costco locations. While this particular blend may no longer be available, collectors can take solace in knowing that Booker's typically releases four aged batches annually, all early in the year. Be sure to stay on the lookout for future treasures from this esteemed brand.

Stagg Jr Bourbon

Aged for at least seven years, Stagg Jr is a favorite among bourbon collectors, prized for its bold, unfiltered, and uncut characteristics that deliver a potent yet surprisingly smooth taste. Produced by an award-winning distillery established in the 1800s, this amber bourbon features a rich blend of chocolate, cherry, rye, clove, and smoky aromas, culminating in a satisfying, lingering finish. One lucky Costco shopper took to Reddit to share their excitement after snagging a bottle for just $39.99 — a remarkable deal compared to its typical $250 price tag. Posting a photo of their prized find alongside the receipt, they exclaimed their relief after years of searching. Fellow bourbon enthusiasts chimed in, praising the score with comments like, "Costco is granting our wishes and dreams," and, "Great find. I can't believe that price ... enjoy that one!" If you spot this gem at your local Costco, consider yourself fortunate!

Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Bourbon Whiskey

Old Rip Van Winkle is a revered name in the bourbon world, known for its quality aged bourbon featuring the rare addition of wheat, which creates a smooth and refined flavor profile. Since its debut in the late 1800s, the brand has upheld its legacy through generations of family craftsmanship. As one of six annually released bourbons in the Van Winkle lineup, aged between 10 and 23 years, Old Rip Van Winkle serves as an introduction to this esteemed family of bourbons. These bottles are highly sought after, often fetching several hundred to several thousand dollars, even when sold in bundles. However, one lucky Reddit user shared their discovery of a Van Winkle bottle at a Washington state Costco for just $81 — a truly rare find. With its silky maple and toffee notes complemented by subtle wood and spice, this 10-year-old batch is as memorable as it is elegant. Keep an eye on your local Costco shelves — you might just stumble upon a noteworthy bourbon at a surprisingly accessible price.