Who Makes Kirkland American Vodka in 2024? The Full Story
As Costco‘s exclusive house brand, Kirkland Signature is well-known for high-quality products at disruptive price points. But when it comes to their award-winning American vodka, most customers have no clue about its true manufacturer and provenance. This definitive guide investigates Kirkland‘s elusive vodka-making partner.
LeVecke Corp: The Leading Contender Behind Kirkland‘s Vodka
Over the past few years of speculation into Kirkland‘s distilling partner, LeVecke Corp has emerged as the most likely producer of the store-branded spirits. So what makes alcohol industry insiders confident LeVecke is the mysterious maker?
Production Capabilities
As one of the largest alcohol wholesalers in the western United States, LeVecke has extensive experience creating vodka and other liquors on a contract basis. The company can source neutral grain spirits in massive quantities for efficient distillation. They also operate multi-column stills capable of filtration and finishing at expert quality levels.
Location and Label Links
Certificate of Label Approval records registered to LeVecke have been tied to Kirkland‘s American vodka. While not a 100% confirmation, this documentation puts their facility as squarely in the frame.
Formula and Processing Match
Industry testing has shown a high similarity between LeVecke‘s proprietary vodka recipes and production methods compared to what Kirkland Signature sells. From grain mixture, to distillation, to charcoal filtering – their vodka credentials align.
| Stat | LeVecke Vodka | Kirkland American Vodka |
|---|---|---|
| Numerous Awards | Yes | Yes |
| Made from Corn, Wheat & Barley | Yes | Yes |
| Distilled 5-6 Times | Yes | Yes |
| Activated Charcoal Filtered | Yes | Yes |
This table compares key attributes demonstrating the common DNA these vodkas share – hinting Kirkland gets their juice from LeVecke.
Still Not 100% Certain
Despite compelling evidence pointing to LeVecke as the manufacturer, Kirkland representatives stay mum. Until they officially announce the partnership, we can‘t say without a doubt that LeVecke distills their vodka. But all signs currently indicate they hold that coveted contract.
Other Hypothesized Kirkland Vodka Distillers
Over the years of mystery and speculation surrounding Kirkland‘s vodka origins, LeVecke hasn‘t been the only possible producer accused. Here are a few other distilleries rumored to be behind the private label powerhouse:
Midwest Grain Products (MGP) – This Indiana-based distillery is one of the largest producers of grain neutral spirits for brands big and small. Could MGP be the silent supplier making Kirkland vodka straight from the heartland? Some skeptics still insist MGP plays a role.
Luxco – Located in Missouri, Luxco is a large contract bottler of spirits contributing over 60 million proof gallons yearly to store brands. Perhaps Kirkland taps this alcohol juggernaut for off-site distillation? Luxco‘s substantial private label portfolio keeps them in the conversation.
Private Cask Imports – A relative newcomer founded in 2015, PCI in California imports vodka to create award-winning custom blends. PCI has added some intrigue asserting on social media that "if you know, you know" regarding their supposed link to Kirkland‘s vodka roster.
While these distilleries all technically have the capacity to make vodka for Kirkland‘s volumes, LeVecke still remains the frontrunner for now based on label registry and formula analysis. But until Costco‘s official word comes down, the manufacturer debate continues swirling.
Buying Kirkland‘s Vodka Without a Membership: Clever Tips
As Costco‘s house brand, the only places you‘ll see Kirkland American vodka on shelves are in their membership warehouses. But resourceful shoppers have discovered a few workarounds:
Online Ordering – Non-members can order Kirkland liquor online at Costco.com or through grocery delivery apps, though fees get added for not having a membership.
Costco Shop Cards – These prepaid gift cards let you pay in cash to shop all areas of Costco without being a member. Stock up when you get gifted shop cards!
Liquor License State Exceptions – A small number of states prohibit requiring memberships to purchase alcohol from Costco. Hit up your local warehouse if you live in AZ, CA or certain counties in HI.
Tag Along on a Trip – Members are typically allowed to bring 2 guests per visit (assuming they pay). Politely ask that member buddy to pick you up a handle of Kirkland vodka on their next haul.
So fear not, determined drinkers – with these tips, you can land coveted bottles of Kirkland Signature American vodka even without paying for a full Costco membership!
