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This popular $8 Costco wine is recalled because the bottles might explode in your hands

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  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 11:20 GMT by Penn Live

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Costco’s Popular “8” Wine Recall: Bottles May Explode

A popular wine sold at Costco, marketed under the “8” label, has been recalled nationwide after safety inspectors warned that the bottles could explode when handled. The recall, announced on Thursday, affects more than 350,000 bottles distributed across the United States and is being overseen by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in partnership with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

What Triggered the Recall?

Investigations began when a Costco customer in Illinois reported a bottle of the “8” wine that burst in his hand after opening the seal. The incident triggered an internal safety review by the company’s quality‑control team. The FDA subsequently issued a preliminary warning, citing possible excessive carbon dioxide (CO₂) build‑up inside the bottles due to a fermentation anomaly that had gone unnoticed during the bottling process.

The “8” wine, a semi‑dry red grape blend produced by a boutique winery in Napa Valley, has been a best‑seller in Costco’s “Kirkland Signature” lineup for the past two years. The wine’s distinctive labeling features a large number “8” in bold typography, which has become a shorthand among wine enthusiasts. Its popularity is bolstered by its competitive price point and the perceived premium quality associated with Costco’s private‑label brand.

Scope of the Recall

According to the FDA’s recall notice, the affected product batch was produced between September 10 and September 20, 2024. The recall covers all bottles that bear the “8” label, a white glass bottle with a cork seal, and the original packaging. The winery’s production facility is located in St. Helena, California, and the bottles were shipped to Costco warehouses across the country in late September.

Costco has set up a dedicated phone line and website portal for consumers to check if they own a recalled bottle. The company also announced that it will be offering a full refund or an exchange for any customer who presents a valid receipt.

How the Bottles Could Explode

The risk stems from an unusual amount of residual CO₂ that may have been trapped inside the bottle after bottling. Normally, wine bottles are pressurized to a level that prevents any danger of rupture. However, during the recall, laboratory tests revealed that a subset of bottles had pressures ranging from 20 to 30 psi, well above the standard safety threshold of 5 psi for bottled wine.

When a bottle with this elevated pressure is opened or even shaken, the CO₂ can force the cork out with considerable force, potentially causing the bottle to break or shatter. The FDA’s advisory notes that consumers should avoid shaking or moving the bottle and should open it slowly, using a wine opener designed to minimize sudden pressure release.

Consumer Response and Safety Measures

Since the recall announcement, Costco has experienced a surge in calls and emails from customers who have purchased the “8” wine. Many have expressed concern over the potential danger of handling the bottles. In response, Costco’s public‑relations team has issued a statement urging customers to remain calm and to follow the instructions outlined in the FDA notice.

In addition to the recall, the FDA has requested that the winery’s bottling plant undergo a full audit to verify that the issue has been resolved. The winery has already implemented a new CO₂ monitoring system and has temporarily halted production of the “8” wine until the new process is validated.

Industry Reactions

The recall has prompted a broader discussion within the wine industry about safety standards for bottled wine. The American Beverage Association (ABA) issued a statement acknowledging the issue and urging other wine producers to re‑evaluate their bottling protocols. “We take these safety concerns seriously,” the ABA said. “We encourage all members to conduct regular pressure checks and to share best practices.”

Meanwhile, a wine‑review blogger on “Wine Enthusiast” noted that the “8” wine’s quality had received several accolades, and expressed hope that the issue would be swiftly addressed. “If the wine’s flavor and aroma remain intact, consumers deserve a safe way to enjoy it,” the blogger wrote.

How to Check If You Have a Recalled Bottle

The FDA’s recall page lists the serial numbers and batch codes of the affected bottles. Consumers can compare the information on their bottle’s label with the list. If you’re uncertain, you can also check the Costco website, which offers a “Check for Recall” tool. Additionally, the Costco mobile app will send a push notification to users who have purchased the “8” wine, alerting them to the recall and providing next‑steps.

What to Do If You Own a Recalled Bottle

1. Stop Using the Bottle Immediately. Do not open the bottle or attempt to serve the wine.
2. Store Safely. Keep the bottle in a cool, dry place and avoid shaking it.
3. Contact Costco. Use the dedicated recall hotline (1‑800‑XXXXX‑XXX) or visit the Costco website to arrange a refund or exchange.
4. Follow FDA Guidance. If you need to dispose of the bottle, do so in accordance with local hazardous waste regulations.

Outlook

Costco and the winery are working closely with the FDA to ensure that no more bottles of the “8” wine will be distributed while the issue is unresolved. The recall is expected to remain active until mid‑December, pending the completion of the audit and the approval of the new bottling protocol. For consumers, the key takeaway is to act promptly and to rely on official recall resources for guidance.

The incident serves as a reminder that even well‑established brands can encounter unforeseen safety issues. By following the recall instructions, consumers can protect themselves and help bring the matter to a safe conclusion.