Costco US recalls sparkling wine over risk of shattering bottles

Costco has recalled its Kirkland Signature Prosecco Valdobbiadene after reports that some bottles may shatter, urging customers to dispose of them safely. Credit: Shutterstock

Costco has issued an urgent product recall for one of its popular private-label wines after reports that certain bottles could shatter unexpectedly, even before being opened. The retailer has taken the unusual step of instructing customers not to return the affected items to stores, but instead to dispose of them safely at home.

The product involved is Kirkland Signature Prosecco Valdobbiadene, sold across several Midwestern US states between 25 April and 26 August 2025. The recall applies to bottles purchased in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The item number to check for is 1879870.

Safety concerns

According to the notice sent directly to Costco members, the company became aware that some bottles of the prosecco may be under excessive internal pressure, creating the risk of the glass breaking spontaneously. For this reason, Costco has advised consumers against handling unopened bottles or attempting to return them in person.

Instead, the company has asked that the wine be discarded at home, with care taken to reduce the danger of injury from breaking glass. Customers are being instructed to wrap bottles in paper towels, place them inside a sealed plastic bag, and then dispose of them in household waste.

Refunds and further information

Although the bottles should not be returned to stores, affected shoppers will still receive a full refund. Refunds can be claimed by presenting Costco with the recall notice letter. Customers experiencing difficulties can contact Ethica Wines, the importer that supplies Kirkland brand sparkling wines.

The retailer stressed that customer safety is its top priority, adding that this procedure is an exception to its standard recall process due to the severity of the hazard. In most product recalls — including a recent case involving chocolate items — shoppers are asked to bring goods back to stores for safe collection and reimbursement.

Consumer response

Reactions online highlight the level of concern among consumers. Several customers shared experiences of corks beginning to loosen under pressure or bottles reacting unpredictably once opened. While some expressed relief that they had avoided accidents, others voiced disappointment at having to dispose of bottles saved for special occasions.

Implications for food and beverage recalls

Product recalls are not uncommon in the food and beverage sector, but the nature of this particular case underscores how quickly retailers may need to adapt their procedures when physical safety risks are identified. Advising disposal rather than return demonstrates the seriousness of the hazard, and serves as a reminder of the critical role retailers play in consumer protection.

For Costco, which has built a strong reputation for customer loyalty through its private-label Kirkland range, the recall is also a test of its communication strategy. Ensuring that recall information reaches members promptly and clearly will be essential in minimising potential injuries and maintaining consumer trust.

Customers who believe they may have purchased the affected prosecco are urged to check item codes carefully and follow the disposal advice provided.