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Food

Costco Offering Full Refunds For Vodka After Customers Report It Tasting And Smelling ‘Off’

August 24, 2023 by Faith Geiger
shefinds | Food
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While it’s up for debate whether or not vodka every really tastes good, it’s safe to say that many of us can at least agree that it has a distinct taste—and would probably notice if it tasted really off. As it turns out, that’s exactly what happened with some recent batches of Costco’s Kirkland Signature American Vodka. Now, after many complaints posted online, Costco is finally addressing the issue and offering a refund. Find all of the details below.

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Costco kirkland vodka

Costco offers refunds on vodka after customer complaints

The internet always seems to be buzzing about one Costco item or another. Most of the time, the buzz is good. However, when it comes to vodka-gate, the comments have unfortunately been negative.

Complaints around the Kirkland Signature Vodka started popping up online about a month ago. One customer took to Reddit to express their disappointment with the product.

"We have been drinking this Vodka for a few years now and we have never had a problem before. We tried two bottles of the Kirkland American Vodka yesterday, and both bottles had the 'chemical' taste," they wrote.

Off tasting Kirkland American Vodka by u/MarkB1756 in Costco

Others chimed in to express similar experiences. "Same thing here. Not so nice smell and horrible flavor. Had to pour it out," one said.

"I just opened a new bottle and made vodka sodas. This is the first time in my life I’ve ever dumped out cocktails. It’s bad," someone commented.

Item #639271, Kirkland Signature American Vodka, does not meet quality expectations and can be returned for a full refund. by u/mxnt in Costco

Now, the warehouse store is finally acknowledging the poor quality and offering a refund. Costco made an announcement regarding the vodka on Aug. 15: "It has come to our attention that the taste profile of units marked with certain lot codes may not have met the expected profile normally consistent with this product," they wrote. "While not a food safety issue, this does not meet our quality expectations."

If you purchased a bottle of this vodka between June 12 and August 10 with one of the following lot codes, you are eligible for a refund:

  • 23-0942
  • 23-0944
  • 23-0953
  • 23-0956
  • 23-0966
  • 23-0973
  • 23-0976
  • 23-0979
  • 23-0985
  • 23-0988
  • 23-1030
  • 23-1058
  • 23-1037
  • 23-1042
  • 23-1044
  • 23-1048
  • 23-1059
  • 23-1060
  • 23-1068
  • 23-1069
  • 23-1075
  • 23-1076
  • 23-1072
  • 23-1081
  • 23-1078
  • 23-1080
  • 23-1079

This isn't the first complaint about the quality of Costco products in recent months. Back in March, there was a lot of buzz around the store's popular rotisserie chicken due to claims that it tasted like chemicals.

But with so many great-tasting foods still on the shelves, is it enough to turn you away? Or will you happily take your refund and continue to shop at Costco? Let us know in the comments!

READ MORE: Superfans Just Spotted This ‘Big Change’ At Costco’s Food Court: ‘They Must Have Been Listening’

Author:

Freelance Writer

Faith Geiger is a New York-based writer and editor. When she's not covering the latest in health and wellness for SheFinds, she spends her time watching reality TV with her roommates, browsing used bookstores, and enjoying live music. You can reach Faith at faithkgeiger@gmail.com.

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Drinking spearmint tea for potential skin benefits.
Variety of bread types displayed on a rustic surface.
Costco bakery showcasing an assortment of fresh pastries.
Woman holding her head in frustration or stress.
Woman experiencing discomfort from joint pain.
Shutterstock image related to beauty and skincare.
Popular coffee and fast food brands displayed together.
Woman adding sugar to a steaming cup of aromatic coffee.
Wooden board with bagels, blueberries, and butter arrangement.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil for cooking.
Brazilian dish featuring rice, beans, and chicken top view.
Checking time on a watch while enjoying breakfast.
Grocery store display of deli meats and sandwich products.
Cooked salmon served with rice, avocado, and greens.
Inside view of a Costco store displaying various products.
Woman taking magnesium supplement for health benefits.
Selection of s'mores brownies and baked goods from Aldi.
Grilled chicken breast with fries, salad, and dipping sauces.
Frozen pizza selection available in grocery store aisle.
Plate of fried fish served with crispy fries.