1. Black Label Cashews (W180):
- Variety: W180 (often referred to as the “King of Cashews”)
- Size: Larger than any other cashew variety, accounting for only 5-10% of the global cashew crop.
- Rarity: These cashews are rarer and more expensive due to their size and limited global availability.
- Packaging: Sold in premium glass jars with a sleek, black label and cursive text that hints at superior quality.
- Flavor: Described as creamier and more buttery, making them a fan favorite among cashew lovers.
- Availability: Sporadic, often appearing in Costco’s snack aisles on a limited basis.
2. Kirkland Signature Cashews (Standard):
- Variety: Likely W210 (commonly referred to as “Jumbo” cashews).
- Size: Smaller than W180 but still considered larger than average cashews available on the market.
- Packaging: Sold year-round in plastic bags under Costco’s in-house Kirkland Signature brand.
- Flavor: While some customers note a difference between the regular and Black Label varieties, many believe the flavor difference is minimal or nonexistent.
- Price: More affordable than the Black Label cashews, making them a go-to choice for bulk buyers and snack enthusiasts
- Comparison of Regular vs. Black Label Cashews
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- Size: W180 (Black Label) cashews are noticeably larger than the W210 variety in the regular Kirkland cashews.
- Packaging: Black Label cashews come in a stylish glass jar, which adds to the perception of premium quality, while regular Kirkland cashews are packaged in standard plastic bags.
- Flavor: Black Label cashews are often praised for having a richer, creamier, and buttery flavor, although some argue that this difference is more about packaging perception than actual taste.
- Price and Availability: Black Label cashews are pricier and not always available, while regular Kirkland cashews are cheaper and stocked year-round.