What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall affecting specific bottles of Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG. This is not a broad recall of all Prosecco or even all Kirkland brand wines, but rather a targeted action concerning particular glass containers manufactured by F&F Fine Wines. The issue is strictly limited to these specific bottles due to the risk they pose to consumers who have already purchased them.
The affected product is the Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. To identify if you have one of the recalled bottles, look for a green glass bottle topped with purple foil and featuring a purple label that clearly reads "Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG." The specific items involved carry the UPC code 196633883742 and the Costco Item Number 1879870. F&F Fine Wines International, Inc., the company responsible for this recall, has confirmed that ten reports have been received regarding these bottles shattering or breaking.
These recalled bottles were sold exclusively at Costco stores across the United States. The recall was announced on November 6, 2025, but the products may have been on store shelves for some time prior to that date. If you purchased this specific Prosecco from Costco before or after that announcement date, it is crucial to verify whether your bottle matches the description above.
The recall covers only the glass bottles themselves. The wine inside is not the problem; rather, it is the structural integrity of the container that has come into question. F&F Fine Wines has identified that these particular bottles can break or shatter unexpectedly, which creates a direct laceration hazard for anyone handling them. This is why immediate action is necessary, even if the bottle appears intact and undamaged at first glance.
It is important to note that this recall does not affect other varieties of Kirkland Signature wine, nor does it impact Prosecco sold under different brand names or from other retailers. The scope is narrow and precise, focusing solely on the green bottles with purple foil and labels associated with UPC 196633883742 and Costco Item Number 1879870. If your bottle does not match these exact specifications, it is not part of this recall.
If you are unsure whether your bottle is included, do not attempt to open it or inspect it closely. Instead, refer to the UPC code and item number on the label. If they match the recalled items, stop using the bottle immediately and follow the remedy instructions provided by Ethica Wines for a full refund from Costco.
The hazard, explained
When you think of a bottle of sparkling wine like Prosecco, you likely imagine celebration, lightness, and ease. The glass itself is designed to hold significant internal pressure—often three to four times the atmospheric pressure outside the bottle—to keep those tiny bubbles suspended in the liquid. Under normal circumstances, this creates a stable, sealed system. However, the core issue with the recalled Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG bottles lies in the structural integrity of the glass itself. When a bottle is manufactured with microscopic flaws, thin spots, or uneven cooling during the production process, it creates weak points that cannot reliably withstand the constant push from the inside.
What goes wrong physically is a sudden failure of containment. As the pressure builds or shifts—whether due to temperature changes in your pantry, minor bumps during transport, or even the simple act of handling the bottle—the stress concentrates on these weak spots. Instead of holding together, the glass loses its tensile strength and fails catastrophically. This does not result in a slow leak or a crack that gives you time to react. Instead, it results in rapid shattering. The stored energy within the pressurized liquid is released instantly, causing the bottle to explode outward rather than simply breaking apart.
This mechanism turns a simple container into a projectile hazard. When the glass shatters under pressure, it does not fall neatly to the floor; it fragments into sharp, jagged shards that can fly several feet in all directions. These fragments are not like broken plate glass, which tends to break into larger, flatter pieces. Glass bottles designed for carbonated beverages are often thicker and tougher, meaning they break into smaller, sharper, and more numerous shards. This is why the laceration risk is so severe. The combination of high-velocity debris and sharp edges means that anyone nearby, particularly if they are holding the bottle or standing close by when it fails, is at immediate risk of deep cuts.
The injury report from F&F Fine Wines confirms this physical reality: ten reports of shattering have resulted in at least one confirmed laceration. While one injury may sound like a small number, it highlights the unpredictable nature of glass failure. You cannot see the microscopic flaw that will eventually cause the break until it is too late. The danger is not just in the cut itself, but in the suddenness of the event. There is no warning sign, no gradual weakening, and no opportunity to step back. The hazard is entirely dependent on the integrity of the glass remaining intact under pressure, and in these recalled units, that integrity cannot be guaranteed.
It is also important to understand that this risk persists even when the bottle is unopened. Many people assume that a closed bottle is safe until it is opened, but the pressure inside is present from the moment of carbonation. If the glass wall is compromised, that pressure is waiting for an opportunity to escape violently. This is why the remedy instructions are so strict: do not attempt to open the bottle. Opening it introduces additional stress and vibration that can trigger the failure immediately. The safest course of action is to leave the pressure contained within the bottle while it is moved carefully to disposal, ensuring that the potential energy inside never has a chance to become kinetic harm.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at immediate risk in this recall consists of anyone who currently possesses the specific bottles of Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG sold by Costco. Because the defect lies within the structural integrity of the glass itself, the danger does not discriminate based on how carefully a person handles their belongings. If you have purchased these bottles using UPC 196633883742 or Costco Item Number 1879870, regardless of when they were bought or how recently, you are holding a potential hazard. The risk is not limited to the moment of opening; it persists as long as the bottle remains intact in your home, waiting for the pressure to build or the glass to fail.
While any individual holding these bottles faces the same mechanical threat of sudden shattering, certain demographics are particularly vulnerable to the consequences. The recall documentation notes that ten reports of breaking or shattering have already been received, resulting in one laceration injury. However, the severity of such an incident is heavily influenced by the physical resilience and reaction time of the user. Young children, who may be curious about colorful packaging or loud noises, are at heightened risk if a bottle were to explode unexpectedly during a celebration. Their smaller stature means they could be closer to the blast zone, and their developing bones and skin are more susceptible to deep cuts from sharp glass shards than adult tissue.
Elderly individuals also face disproportionate risks in this scenario. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, making it far easier for even minor debris or small fragments of glass to cause significant lacerations that heal slowly and are prone to infection. Furthermore, the elderly often have slower reflexes. If a bottle were to shatter without warning, an older adult might not be able to step back quickly enough to avoid the initial spray of glass and pressurized liquid. The combination of fragile skin and delayed reaction time turns what might be a minor annoyance for a younger person into a serious medical event for an older one.
Additionally, anyone hosting a gathering or serving these wines in high-traffic areas is at increased risk not just for themselves, but for guests. A shattering bottle in a crowded room creates a chaotic environment where secondary injuries can occur. Guests might trip over flying debris, or children might wander into the area before it is secured. The pressure inside these defective bottles can cause them to burst with enough force to send glass flying several feet. Therefore, the risk extends beyond the owner to anyone standing nearby during storage or transport. It is crucial to recognize that the hazard is invisible until it happens, making precautionary action essential for everyone in the household, especially those with limited mobility or slower response times.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, it is crucial to confirm whether your bottle is part of this specific recall. Because the issue involves a manufacturing defect in the glass itself rather than the wine inside, you cannot identify the problem by tasting or smelling the product. Instead, you must rely on the physical packaging and labeling details provided by the manufacturer. F&F Fine Wines International, Inc. has identified a very narrow range of affected items, so checking these specific markers is your first line of defense.
The primary indicator is the brand name printed clearly on the front label. You are looking for bottles labeled Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG. It is important to note that while Kirkland Signature is a Costco private label, this specific recall is issued by F&F Fine Wines as the responsible party for the glass integrity. If your bottle lacks this exact phrasing, it is likely not part of this batch, but you should still verify the other details below.
Next, examine the physical appearance of the bottle. The recalled items are contained in green glass bottles. The top of the bottle is sealed with distinctive purple foil, and the main label is also purple. The label features the words "Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG" prominently. If your bottle has a different color foil, a clear or amber glass body, or a different label design, it does not match the description of the recalled product.
To be absolutely certain, you must check the barcode and internal tracking numbers located on the back or side of the bottle. The recall applies only to bottles with the UPC code 196633883742. Additionally, look for the Costco Item Number, which should read 1879870. These numbers are your definitive proof. If either of these codes does not match exactly, your bottle is safe from this specific recall.
Finally, consider where and when you purchased the item. This product was sold exclusively at Costco stores across the United States. There is no indication that other retailers carried this exact batch with the same defect. If you bought it elsewhere, it is likely not affected. However, if you are unsure or cannot find the labels due to storage conditions, do not attempt to open the bottle. Instead, contact Ethica Wines at 786-810-7132 for assistance in verifying your specific unit.
What to do — step by step
If you own a bottle of Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG from Costco, the most important thing right now is to pause and act carefully. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on November 6, 2025, identifies a serious risk: the glass bottles can break or shatter unexpectedly. This is not a minor inconvenience; it is a safety issue that requires immediate attention. Please do not ignore this alert. Your safety and the safety of those around you depend on following these specific steps exactly as outlined by F&F Fine Wines International, Inc., the company responsible for the recall. First, stop using the bottle immediately. Do not attempt to open it, pour it, or even shake it gently to check its contents. The structural integrity of the glass is compromised, and any pressure applied—whether from opening the cork or simply handling it roughly—could cause the bottle to shatter. Glass shards can fly with enough force to cause lacerations, as evidenced by the ten reports of breakage received so far, one of which resulted in an injury. Treat the bottle as if it is already broken and fragile. Handle it with extreme caution only if you must move it from a shelf to a trash bin, but ideally, leave it exactly where it is until you are ready to dispose of it safely. Next, prepare the bottle for disposal. You should discard the recalled bottles in your household trash. To do this safely, place the entire bottle into a sturdy box or wrap it securely in several layers of heavy paper or plastic bags. This prevents anyone—from family members to sanitation workers—from accidentally cutting themselves on broken glass later. Do not recycle the bottle at this time, as the recycling process involves handling and crushing that would be dangerous given the defect. Once secured, place it in your regular trash bin. After you have safely disposed of the bottle, you need to arrange for your refund. The remedy provided by the manufacturer is a full refund from Costco, but you must contact Ethica Wines to initiate this process. They are managing the recall logistics on behalf of F&F Fine Wines International, Inc. You can reach them by phone at 786-810-7132. Their customer service team is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. If you prefer written communication, you may also email them at customercare@ethicawines.com. When you contact them, have your Costco receipt or the UPC code (196633883742) and Costco Item Number (1879870) ready to verify your purchase. Finally, keep a record of your communication. Save any email confirmations or note the date and time you called. This ensures you have proof that you complied with the safety recall instructions promptly. By following these steps, you protect yourself from injury and ensure you receive the full refund you are entitled to. Do not delay; the sooner you act, the safer your home remains.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When you discover that a product in your home is part of an official recall, the immediate next step is understanding exactly how to resolve the issue without causing further harm or inconvenience. In this specific case involving Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG bottles, the remedy provided by the manufacturer and regulatory agencies is straightforward but requires careful adherence to safety protocols. It is important to note that there are no options for repair or replacement of the hazardous glass bottles themselves. Glass that has been compromised or is prone to shattering cannot be safely fixed; it must be removed from your environment entirely. Therefore, your primary option is a full refund, facilitated through a specific channel established by the responsible parties.
The recall notice explicitly states that consumers should not attempt to open the recalled bottles. This is a critical safety instruction because the hazard involves the glass breaking or shattering, which poses a direct laceration risk. Attempting to open the bottle defeats the purpose of the remedy and puts you in danger. Instead, the prescribed action is to discard the recalled bottles in your household trash. However, before you simply throw them away, you must contact Ethica Wines to initiate the refund process from Costco. This two-step approach ensures that the hazardous item is disposed of safely while simultaneously securing your financial compensation.
To obtain your full refund, you need to reach out to Ethica Wines directly. They are the designated contact for this recall and will provide instructions on how to process the refund through Costco. You can contact them by phone at 786-810-7132. Their customer service team is available from Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. If you prefer written communication or need to provide additional details about your purchase, you may also email them at customercare@ethicawines.com. When you contact them, be prepared to provide the specific details of the product you possess, such as the UPC code (196633883742) and the Costco Item Number (1879870), to help them verify that your item is indeed part of this recall.
The "why" behind this process is rooted in both safety and accountability. By discarding the bottles, you eliminate the risk of injury to yourself and others in your household. By contacting Ethica Wines, you ensure that the manufacturer and retailer are aware of the extent of the distribution and can manage the recall effectively. This refund is not a partial credit or store coupon; it is a full reimbursement for the value of the product. Do not hesitate to reach out if you encounter any difficulties during this process. The goal is to make the resolution as smooth as possible while prioritizing your physical safety above all else.
Remember, this remedy applies only to the specific green bottles with purple foil and labels reading "Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG." If you are unsure whether your bottle is part of the recall, refer back to the identification section of this article. Once you have confirmed it is the recalled item, follow the steps outlined above: stop using it immediately, discard it safely in your household trash, and contact Ethica Wines to secure your refund. This process ensures that you are not left with a hazardous product and that you are financially made whole for the inconvenience.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to discard a bottle of wine that appears perfectly fine on the outside. The glass looks intact, the foil seal seems secure, and the label is pristine. When faced with a recall notice for a product you have already purchased and perhaps even opened your mind to enjoying, the natural human response is often denial or minimization. You might tell yourself, "It’s just one bottle," or "I’ll be careful with it," hoping that the risk is theoretical rather than immediate. However, ignoring this specific recall carries tangible, dangerous consequences that extend far beyond the simple loss of a beverage.
The core danger here is not merely that the bottle might break; it is that it can shatter unexpectedly and violently under normal handling conditions. Glass defects in pressure-containing vessels like sparkling wine bottles are rarely visible to the naked eye. A microscopic flaw in the glass structure, which could have been introduced during manufacturing or cooling, creates a point of extreme weakness. When you attempt to open the bottle, the internal pressure releases rapidly. If that weak point is present, the glass does not just crack; it explodes outward with significant force. This is not a slow leak or a gentle pop; it is a sudden fragmentation event. By continuing to hold onto the bottle, you are keeping a potential projectile in your home, waiting for the moment when pressure meets vulnerability.
The reality of this hazard is not hypothetical. F&F Fine Wines International, Inc., the company behind this recall, has already documented ten separate incidents where these specific bottles shattered or broke during use. More critically, among those ten reports, there was one confirmed laceration injury. This confirms that the risk is active and affecting real consumers right now. A laceration from broken wine glass is not a minor scrape; it is a deep cut that can sever tendons, damage nerves, or require surgical intervention and stitches. The shards of tempered or annealed glass used in these bottles can become sharp projectiles that fly across the room, posing a risk not only to the person opening the bottle but also to anyone standing nearby, including children or pets who might be close by.
Beyond the immediate physical injury, ignoring the recall creates a cascade of other problems. If you attempt to open the bottle and it shatters, you are left with a dangerous cleanup situation involving sharp glass mixed with wine, which can stain carpets and floors. You may also damage your countertops or tables if the pressure causes the base of the bottle to detach or explode downward. Furthermore, by keeping the bottle, you are delaying the resolution of the issue. The recall process is designed to protect you, but it only works if you participate. Continuing to use the product means you are gambling with your safety for the sake of convenience, when a simple refund is available through Ethica Wines. There is no benefit to keeping a known hazard in your kitchen; the potential cost—a trip to the emergency room or a permanent scar—is far too high compared to the inconvenience of following the recall instructions.