Costco Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin Review

Looking to explore the world of affordable gin, I recently picked up a bottle of Costco Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin to try for myself. Like many of Costco’s signature products, it promises quality at a great price. As a casual gin drinker, I was curious to see how it would hold up against pricier options in terms of taste and mixability.

I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and value this gin offers, especially considering its affordable price.

One of the first things I noticed about the Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin was its noticeable heavy notes of juniper. This gin strikes a nice balance of botanicals, including pine and subtle rose notes. While it may not be on par with high-end gins like Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire, it certainly holds its own in terms of flavor and drinkability.

In terms of mixability, this gin works great in cocktails, as it pairs well with various fruity ingredients, and also works well with simple mixers like tonic or club soda. I’ve had success making classic cocktails like martinis, as well as more adventurous concoctions. As a tip, when serving among discerning gin drinkers, don’t try to pass it off as a more expensive brand, but enjoy it for its own merits.

Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin is produced in the USA and has earned an 89 score from Tastings for its “crisp, dry light body” and “effortless” finish. While the producer isn’t widely disclosed, it’s worth noting that Diageo, a multinational beverage company, has been known to work with Kirkland on their spirits, including their vodka line.

In addition to the gin, Costco’s Kirkland Signature also offers other liquors such as vodka, whiskey, and more. Some popular options include Kirkland Signature American Vodka, Kirkland Signature Blended Scotch Whisky, and Kirkland Signature Tennessee Whiskey, which are all known for their value and quality. One can always expect a generally good experience from Kirkland Signature liquors, whether enjoying them neat or in a variety of cocktails.

Aroma

Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted with a pleasant aroma. The scent of juniper berries clearly dominated, while also revealing floral notes and zesty citrus peel. A subtle hint of coriander balanced things nicely.

Flavor

As I took my first sip, the flavor profile was quite enjoyable. The taste of juniper remained prominent, but it was complemented by more delicate flavors like lemon and pine. There was also a slight sweetness at play, adding a nice touch of complexity to the gin.

Finish

Once I finished my sip, the gin had a crisp, dry finish. It was smooth and effortless, making it a perfect choice for mixed drinks or a refreshing gin and tonic. I didn’t notice any overpowering caramel color or lingering aftertastes, which I appreciated.

Rating

Based on my experience, I would give the Costco Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin an 8 out of 10. Its combination of juniper, citrus, and other botanical flavors make it a solid choice for its price point. It may not be the most amazing gin out there, but it’s a good value that’s worth trying.

Best Mixers

In my experience, when it comes to mixing Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin, there are a few go-to mixers that enhance its flavor. Tonic water and club soda make for classic gin and tonic highballs. The effervescence of these mixers complements the gin’s botanicals, creating a refreshing drink. Another great mixer option is citrus-based juices, like lemonade and limeade, as they add a burst of fruity brightness to the gin.

Cocktail Suggestions

If you’re interested in creating cocktails with Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin, a few cocktails that work well with it are:

• Gin and Tonic: Combine gin, tonic water, ice, and a slice of lime for a simple, refreshing cocktail that brings out the gin’s juniper notes.
• Gimlet: Mix gin, lime juice, and simple syrup for a sweet and tangy cocktail that highlights the gin’s citrus flavors.
• Martini: Blend gin, dry vermouth, and ice, then strain into a chilled glass for a classic, elegant cocktail. Garnish with an olive or a twist of lemon peel.

For added variety, you can also try infusing the gin with different fruit flavors and botanicals to create unique concoctions.

Food Pairings

Pairing Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin with food can enhance your overall tasting experience. Some food ideas to pair with the gin include:

• Seafood: light, delicate dishes like shrimp cocktail, oysters, or sushi complement the gin’s subtle flavors.
• Bitter Greens: a mixed green salad with arugula or radicchio can accentuate the gin’s herbal qualities.
• Citrus: dishes with lemon, lime, or orange add a brightness that pairs well with the gin’s citrus undertones.

It’s been insightful exploring Costco’s Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin, and I’ve come to appreciate its value and taste. As a fan of spirits, I noticed that this gin has a crisp, dry light body and an effortless finish, making it a great option for mixed drinks and cocktails involving club soda, tonic, or fruity ingredients.

I’d say the Kirkland Signature London Dry Gin has secured a place as one of my preferred alcohols at Costco. Plus, it’s hard to beat the price of around $18 for a 1.75-liter handle.

Additionally, I’ve tasted more premium gins like Hendrick’s and Tanqueray, so I could distinguish the difference in tastes, but the Kirkland gin is an attractive lower-priced alternative. The gin’s juniper-heavy notes may not be for everyone, but I find it fitting for specific cocktails and occasions.

As a responsible consumer, it’s essential for me to know that the alcohol and tobacco tax and trade bureau has overseen the production of this Kirkland Signature product. A quality assurance like this gives me peace of mind when purchasing drinks for myself or entertaining guests.