I’m told that Trader Joe’s single malt scotch is comparable to many of the good (perhaps not the best) “label” single malts at about half the price. I’ve not confirmed this.
I’ve also heard that the what is it?, Kirkland vodka from Costco is almost exactly the same as Grey Goose...
Personally, I judge a spirit by more than just taste. One of my main considerations is “Am I gonna feel like crap for two days?”
Different booze, different hangovers.
It indeed used to be. Since I’ve not been to TJ’s in many years, I can’t verify this any more, but when I was drinking more single malt than I am now, it was certainly the case and I’d pick up many a bottle of good, “end of run” or similar odd-lot whisky at TJ’s.