Costco, a haven for budget-friendly shopping, is gaining attention for offering more than just its signature $1.50 hot dogs and large flat-screen TVs. Thanks to Oregon’s Deschutes Brewery, the retailer now boasts a surprisingly affordable beer that has earned industry recognition, including a prestigious gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival, often referred to as the “Oscars of beer.”
The beer in question, Prinz Crispy, is a helles-style lager that carries Costco’s Kirkland Signature label. While the can prominently displays Costco’s branding, the fine print reveals its true origin—Deschutes Brewery, known for producing quality craft beers. Despite its brewery pedigree, the lager is priced at an astonishingly low rate of around $7 for a six-pack, making it one of the best bargains in the beer aisle.
Reddit users have been quick to praise the beer, with one enthusiast stating, “I’ve had a few now and it’s delicious!! 10/10 would recommend.” The beer boasts an ABV of 4.5% and offers a malty sweetness with a delicate hop character, making it a refreshing option for casual drinkers. As a helles lager, it features a light color and a smooth, easy-drinking profile, qualities that have contributed to its growing popularity.
The release of Kirkland Lager marks a notable improvement for Costco’s in-house beer offerings, especially when compared to its previous Kirkland Signature Light, which was widely panned on beer rating sites like Untappd. “Even if I had a piss kink I would not drink this absolute piss of a beer,” one user commented, a sentiment echoed by many.
In contrast, Kirkland Lager seems to be a return to form for Costco’s private-label beverages. The retailer has already made a name for itself with highly regarded products like its American Vodka, which is frequently featured in buying guides. Given its success, the lager might well earn a place on future beer recommendations if such guides existed.
Deschutes Brewery continues to be a leader in the craft beer world, with its organic non-alcoholic beer recently receiving accolades in Gear Patrol’s “GP100” list of the year’s most important releases. This recognition further solidifies the quality behind Costco’s Kirkland Lager.
For those heading to Costco for a $1.50 hot dog or a giant TV, the Kirkland Lager is an excellent, affordable addition to their shopping cart—though beer prices may vary by state.
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