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This Costco Wine Could Explode, Retailer Warns Its Members

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/16 .. ne-could-explode-retailer-warns-its-members.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, September 16th 2025 at 17:25 GMT by Patch
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Costco Wine Bottles Under Scrutiny After Safety Concern

A wave of concern has swept through Costco’s warehouses nationwide after an article on Patch highlighted the possibility that certain bottles of the retailer’s own‑brand wine could explode. The warning comes as the company—known for its bulk‑buying model and signature brand, Kirkland Signature—faces an unprecedented recall threat that could touch every member who has stocked up on the $7–$8 bottles that have become a staple of the store’s wine aisle.

The Core Issue

According to the Patch piece, the problem stems from a defect in the cork sealing of a specific batch of Kirkland Signature wine. “The corks appear to have been improperly seated during the bottling process, creating pressure that can cause the glass to break or, in extreme cases, to explode,” the article explains. This type of failure is not merely a nuisance—there have already been a handful of isolated reports of bottles shattering during transport, injuring staff and customers alike.

While the article does not cite a formal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recall, it does note that Costco has opened a review with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). In a statement linked in the story, Costco’s public‑relations team confirmed that it is “investigating the defect and will take corrective action if necessary.” The company emphasized that, so far, there have been no injuries, but members are advised to inspect the bottles for bulging or leakage before consumption.

What Members Should Do

The patch article offers a practical checklist for Costco members. First, check the bottle for any visible bulges—an unmistakable sign that the cork is not sealed properly. Second, feel the neck of the bottle; if it feels unusually warm or if the cork gives a bit of give when pressed, that’s a red flag. Finally, if a bottle appears compromised, do not open it; instead, bring it back to a Costco location for a possible refund or replacement.

The article links to a Costco press release that details the exact vintages affected. According to the release, only 2018 and 2019 vintages of the Kirkland Signature “Sparkling” and “Red” lines are under scrutiny, and only those produced in a single bottling plant in California. Costco says it is actively shipping replacement bottles to all affected stores and will replace any defective units on a “first‑come, first‑served” basis.

Historical Context

Costco has a relatively clean safety record for packaged goods, but the wine issue is not its first hiccup. A brief mention in the Patch article cites a 2017 incident when a different line of Costco‑branded wine bottles developed a leak due to a defective seal. The company quickly recalled the product and updated its bottling process. That event, however, has never been reported as an explosion case, making the current concern unusually severe.

Industry Reactions

The article links to a local news piece that quoted a wine critic from Chicago’s “Taste of the Midwest.” The critic warned that “the risk of a bottle shattering can’t be understated.” Meanwhile, a CPSC representative, speaking on record, said that the agency has not yet approved an official recall but is monitoring the situation closely. “Our priority is to ensure consumer safety and to work with the manufacturer to resolve any defects,” the spokesperson said.

Costco’s Broader Strategy

For Costco, this episode is a potential blow to its value‑driven strategy. The retailer has built a loyal customer base partly on the promise of high‑quality goods at a low price. The Kirkland Signature wine line, with its bulk‑packaging and competitive pricing, has been a top‑seller for years. A recall could tarnish the brand’s reputation and prompt members to seek other, perhaps more expensive, wine options.

Costco’s spokesperson acknowledged that “we take safety very seriously and have a strong track record of working with suppliers to maintain quality.” The company also highlighted its member‑only model, which it says allows for a more direct and swift communication channel with consumers. “Members can reach out via the Costco app or our customer service hotline for updates on the recall and any replacement offers,” the spokesperson added.

What’s Next

The article concludes by noting that Costco is currently “collaborating with third‑party testing labs to identify the root cause of the defect and prevent future incidents.” The company is also reviewing its bottling line in California and is in talks with the bottling supplier to tighten quality control protocols. Costco’s legal team is preparing potential regulatory filings, and the CPSC will likely issue its own formal warning or recall notice if the investigation uncovers a widespread safety risk.

For now, the best advice for Costco members is to remain vigilant. Inspect your bottles, be cautious when opening them, and keep an eye out for any updates from Costco’s official communication channels. While no injuries have been reported yet, the possibility of an explosion is a serious hazard that cannot be ignored. As the situation develops, both Costco and the broader wine industry will be watching closely to see how this incident will shape the conversation around product safety and consumer trust.