Battle of the Box Store Bourbons: Sam's Club versus Costco

Welcome back to DadDimes On the Rocks, where we review and compare the best bourbons on the market. Today, we’re putting two popular club-exclusive bourbons head-to-head: Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon from Costco and Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon from Sam’s Club. Let’s see how these two stack up with our special guest Ernesto.

Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon

Bottle Presentation: Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon comes in a robust and straightforward bottle, with a clean and simple label that signifies its no-nonsense approach. The Kirkland brand is known for delivering quality products at a great value, and the packaging reflects that promise.

Taste: On the nose, Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon offers inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of oak. There’s also a subtle note of spice, hinting at the complexity within.

Taking a sip, you’ll find a well-rounded palate. The initial flavors are a blend of sweet caramel and creamy vanilla, followed by the warmth of toasted oak. There’s a touch of rye spice that adds a bit of a kick, along with notes of butterscotch and a hint of dark fruit. The finish is smooth and medium-length, leaving a pleasant, slightly spicy aftertaste.

Overall Impression: Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon is a solid performer in the small batch category. It’s smooth, balanced, and offers great value for the price. It’s versatile enough to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite bourbon cocktail.

Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon

Bottle Presentation: Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon is presented in a similarly sturdy bottle with a simple yet elegant label. The design conveys a sense of quality and tradition, fitting for a small batch bourbon.

Taste: On the nose, Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon greets you with rich aromas of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. There are also hints of spice and a slight floral note, adding to the complexity.

Taking a sip, you’ll experience a rich and smooth palate. The initial taste is a harmonious blend of caramel and vanilla, quickly followed by the warmth of toasted oak and a touch of cinnamon spice. As the flavors develop, you’ll notice hints of honey and a subtle nuttiness, adding depth to the profile. The finish is long and smooth, with a pleasant warmth and a lingering sweetness.

Overall Impression: Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon impresses with its rich and complex flavor profile. It’s well-balanced, smooth, and offers a luxurious experience that belies its affordable price. It’s a versatile bourbon that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, whether neat, on the rocks, or in a sophisticated cocktail.

Conclusion

Both Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon and Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon offer excellent value and quality, making them great choices for bourbon enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option.

Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon is straightforward and dependable, with a balanced flavor profile that makes it versatile and enjoyable.

Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon stands out with its rich and complex flavors, offering a slightly more luxurious experience.

In the end, you can’t go wrong with either choice. It all comes down to your personal preference and taste. So there you have it, folks. That’s our take on Kirkland Small Batch Bourbon and Member’s Mark Small Batch Bourbon. As always, drink responsibly and savor every sip. Cheers!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XPck