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We all know one of the best cost-savings strategies at Costco is to stock up on industrial-sized jars of peanut butter. But if you're willing to dig around a bit (and have the patience to navigate aisles where everything is temptingly oversized), you'll uncover some hidden gems that make that annual membership fee feel like the steal of the century.
Let's dive into three standout Costco items that make other stores jealous.
1. Wine
When Costco decided to venture into the world of wine, it didn't just dip a toe in -- it dove headfirst. Kirkland's wine lineup covers everything from crisp, zesty New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs to robust Spanish Riojas, even going all the way to dessert wines like 10-Year Tawny Ports.
What makes this selection stand out is that these aren't just generic offerings; they're often comparable to well-loved (and pricier) brands like Kim Crawford, Campo Viejo, and Taylor Fladgate. And the best part? You're getting the same quality at almost half the price.
Take Costco's Ti Point Sauvignon Blanc, for instance. At only $7.49, it delivers the fresh, citrusy kick and crisp finish you'd expect from a top-tier New Zealand vineyard, making it a worthy rival to Kim Crawford's popular bottle, which usually sells for nearly $13. This is the kind of wine you pull out for dinner with friends, and they won't have a clue it came from the same place you got a jumbo pack of frozen pizza bagels.
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2. Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Italian Olive Oil
Now, if you're in the market for olive oil, Costco's Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Italian Olive Oil is a pantry staple that's tough to beat. Not only is it certified organic and cold-pressed, but it's also one that some chefs love. At around $13 a liter, it's less than the cost of even other discount brands that can reach up to over $17 per liter, making it a wallet-friendly yet flavorful choice for any home chef.
With its smooth, peppery taste and quality that holds up against premium oils, this Kirkland offering is ideal for everything from drizzling on salads to cooking up a weeknight pasta. And because it's Costco-sized, you won't have to worry about running out any time soon (unless you're running your own restaurant out of your kitchen). Plus, it's produced in Italy and adheres to strict standards, so you know you're getting something that's authentic and delicious.
3. Sheet cakes
If you haven't had a Costco cake, consider this your sign to change that ASAP. These cakes are semi-customizable, meaning you can add a personal touch without the price tag of a boutique bakery. Ranging from $15.99 to $24.99, Costco's cakes are massive and made to satisfy whether you've got a birthday party, office celebration, or just a Wednesday night sweet tooth.
And these aren't just big for the sake of being big -- they're genuinely delicious. With both vanilla and chocolate options, Costco sheet cakes could easily feed a small army. Costco's cakes are moist, flavorful, and way more than you'd expect from a "big box" bakery. Their size and price alone are enough to draw anyone in, but it's the taste that keeps them coming back. They're the real deal and don't need any fancy frills to win you over.
So, next time you're pushing your cart down those wide Costco aisles, keep an eye out for these gems. Whether you're grabbing a great wine, a top-rated olive oil, or a cake that could practically double as a centerpiece, these finds are proof that Costco is more than just bulk buys. With deals like these, you'll be toasting your membership card in no time -- cheers to that!
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