Kirkland Signature Helles Lager Meets Its End
Deschutes Brewery’s CEO Peter Skrbek announced on July 1, 2026, that the popular Kirkland Signature Helles Lager and Kirkland Signature Vintage Ale will cease production. This decision marks the end of a successful, albeit short-lived, partnership between Deschutes and Costco, which began in December 2024. Consumers can expect to see the last of these award-winning beers from Costco warehouses by September or October of this year.
Key Highlights
- Discontinuation: The Kirkland Signature Helles Lager and Vintage Ale are being discontinued less than two years after their launch.
- Timeline: Production is scaling back immediately, with the beers expected to be off Costco shelves by September or October 2026.
- Accolades: The Helles Lager earned significant recognition, including a silver medal at the 2025 World Beer Cup and a bronze in 2026.
- Industry Impact: The collaboration was seen as a major success, boosting Deschutes’ sales and proving that high-quality craft beer could be offered at an accessible price point.
- Deschutes’ Growth: Despite the partnership’s end, Deschutes Brewery reports strong year-to-date growth, with dollar sales up 8.3% and volume sales up 9.3% compared to the previous year.
The Unforeseen End of a Highly Acclaimed Partnership
The Kirkland Signature Helles Lager, in particular, garnered significant praise, often described as “one of the best lagers on the market” and a “massive improvement” over previous Kirkland light lagers. Its quality was not just a consumer sentiment; it was validated by industry awards. The Helles Lager secured a silver medal at the World Beer Cup in 2025 and followed up with a bronze medal in 2026. These accolades, combined with Costco’s signature low price of $13.99 for a 12-pack, made the beer an “industry phenomenon” and a remarkable value proposition. The partnership, launched in December 2024, allowed Deschutes Brewery to significantly increase its sales volume, experiencing a nine percent jump in 2024, the same year the collaboration began.
A Strategic Business Decision Amidst Growth
Despite the apparent success and critical acclaim, Deschutes CEO Peter Skrbek indicated in a July 1 memo to distributors that the discontinuation is part of a “planned schedule”. While no official reason has been publicly stated by either Costco or Deschutes, the decision comes at a time when Deschutes Brewery itself is experiencing robust growth. Year-to-date dollar sales for Deschutes are up 8.3%, and volume sales have increased by 9.3% compared to the same period last year, according to market research firm Circana. Skrbek reassured distributors of the brewery’s “strong growth” and its focus on continuing to drive brand growth in the latter half of 2026. The partnership’s end does not appear to be a reflection of Deschutes’s struggling performance; rather, it seems to be a strategic business decision or a pre-determined endpoint for the collaboration.
The Legacy of Kirkland Signature Helles
The Kirkland Signature Helles Lager, brewed by Deschutes, was more than just a value beer. It was a meticulously crafted Munich-style Helles that could stand toe-to-toe with respected Bavarian imports. Its flavor profile was characterized by notes of fresh bread crust and soft dough, balanced by restrained noble hops, leading to a crisp, mineral snap and a dry finish. This quality was certified by its numerous awards. For many consumers, it represented a rare instance where exceptional quality was accessible at an unparalleled price, effectively democratizing a premium craft beer experience. The discontinuation leaves a void for those who appreciated this unique combination of award-winning taste and affordability, prompting fans to express their disappointment and, in some cases, hope for a potential return of the lager in the future.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What is the Kirkland Signature Helles Lager?
The Kirkland Signature Helles Lager was a Munich-style Helles lager produced through a collaboration between Costco’s private label, Kirkland Signature, and Deschutes Brewery. It was praised for its high quality and affordable price point, winning multiple awards including silver and bronze medals at the World Beer Cup.
When will Kirkland Signature Helles Lager be discontinued?
Production of the Kirkland Signature Helles Lager is winding down immediately, with the beers expected to be gone from most Costco warehouses by September or October of 2026.
Why is the Kirkland Signature Helles Lager being discontinued?
While no official reason has been publicly disclosed, Deschutes CEO Peter Skrbek stated in a memo that the discontinuation is part of a “planned schedule.” The end of the partnership comes as Deschutes Brewery continues to experience significant growth.
Did the Kirkland Signature Helles Lager win any awards?
Yes, the Kirkland Signature Helles Lager received significant industry recognition. It won a silver medal at the World Beer Cup in 2025 and a bronze medal in 2026, validating its high quality.
What was the price of Kirkland Signature Helles Lager?
The Kirkland Signature Helles Lager was known for its exceptional value, typically selling for $13.99 for a 12-pack of cans.
