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Who actually makes Kirkland Tequila?
When it comes to finding quality products at affordable prices, Costco’s Kirkland brand is often a first choice for many shoppers. However, when it comes to tequila, the story takes a different turn. In this article, we delve into the details of Kirkland Tequila and uncover the truth about its origins and quality.
The origins of Kirkland Tequila
Contrary to popular belief, Costco does not produce Kirkland Tequila in-house. As with other Kirkland products, they rely on outside suppliers to meet demand. To determine where a particular tequila is made, simply look for the NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) on the bottle. This number provides valuable information about the distillery that produced the tequila.
According to the website Tequila Taste Matchmaker, all three types of Kirkland tequila (Anejo, Silver, and Reposado) come from a distillery called La Madrileña in Tototlan, a town in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Interestingly, La Madrileña is also responsible for producing the Tabasco brand of tequila, which speaks to their experience and reputation in the industry.
The Quality Concerns
While La Madrileña has its merits, it is not one of the top distilleries in Mexico when it comes to tequila quality. According to Taste Tequila’s ranking of active tequila distilleries in Mexico, La Madrileña ranks 99th out of 136. This raises concerns about the overall quality of Kirkland Tequila.
It’s worth noting that Costco has switched tequila suppliers over time. Prior to sourcing from La Madrileña, they worked with Fabrica de Tequilas Finos. This distillery was known for producing Ed Hardy tequila, which might give you an idea of the brands they were associated with. Costco has also switched between different NOMs (1438, 1173, 1142, and 1472) for their tequila production, indicating a lack of consistency in their sourcing decisions.
What’s even more alarming is that Kirkland Tequila seems to have experienced a decline in quality over time. While the current distillery (La Madrileña) is ranked 99, NOM 1173 was ranked 51, NOM 1438 was ranked 65, and NOM 1472 was ranked 92. These rankings suggest that the quality of Kirkland Tequila is on a downward trend.
The verdict on Kirkland Tequila
Considering the information available, it’s clear that Kirkland Tequila may not be the best choice for tequila enthusiasts looking for premium quality. While the affordability of Kirkland products is appealing, it’s important to remember that tequila is one of those spirits where quality matters.
If you’re looking for high quality tequila, it’s wise to explore other brands and distilleries that have a proven track record of excellence. While Kirkland offers many great products, their tequila may not live up to the expectations of discerning tequila connoisseurs.
In conclusion, Kirkland Tequila comes from the La Madrileña distillery in Tototlan, Jalisco. However, the distillery’s ranking in terms of tequila quality raises concerns about the overall quality of Kirkland Tequila. It’s worth considering other options if you’re looking for a tequila that delivers an exceptional taste experience.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on the sources and rankings available at the time of writing. Costco’s rankings and sourcing decisions may change in the future, and it’s always recommended that you do further research and tasting to make an informed decision about the tequilas you choose to enjoy.
FAQS
Is Kirkland Tequila made by Costco?
No, Kirkland Tequila is not produced by Costco. They source their tequila from outside distilleries.
How can I find out where Kirkland Tequila is made?
Look for the NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) on the bottle. The NOM provides information about the distillery that produced the tequila.
Which distillery is responsible for the production of Kirkland Tequila?
Kirkland Tequila is currently produced by La Madrileña, a distillery located in Tototlan, Jalisco, Mexico.
How does La Madrileña compare to other Tequila distilleries?
La Madrileña is ranked 99th out of 136 active Tequila distilleries in Mexico according to Taste Tequila’s ranking.
Has Kirkland Tequila maintained a consistent distillery supplier?
No, Costco has switched between different distilleries and NOMs for their tequila production, indicating a lack of consistency in their sourcing decisions.
Has the quality of Kirkland Tequila changed over time?
Yes, there is evidence of a decline in quality over time. The current distillery (La Madrileña) ranks lower than previous distilleries used by Kirkland.