Everything About Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey

Background on Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey

Established in 1939 to commemorate the royal visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Canada, this premium whisky has since become a cornerstone of Canadian whisky production. The brand's commitment to quality is evident in its meticulous blending process, which combines over 50 distinct whiskies to create its signature smooth and complex flavor profile. Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey's unique packaging, featuring a glass bottle nestled in a royal purple bag, has become instantly recognizable worldwide, further cementing its status as a luxury spirit.

Product Deep Dives

Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye

Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye is a special whisky that blends regular Crown Royal with the fragrant flavors of Canadian rye grain. Part of the Signature Series, this unique creation offers a sweet and spicy profile that has garnered high praise from whisky enthusiasts. Its complex character sets it apart from other offerings in the Crown Royal range.

Priced between $21 and $55, Northern Harvest Rye is best enjoyed neat or over ice.

The Legacy of Canadian Whisky

Canadian whisky has a rich and storied history that spans centuries. Originating in the late 18th century, Canadian whisky evolved from the distilling practices of European and American settlers. The first recorded distillery in Quebec City dates back to 1769, but it wasn't until 1801 that John Molson began the first commercial-scale production of Canadian whisky in Montreal, using a copper pot still previously used for rum production. This early whisky was often rough and unaged, made from surplus grains like wheat to avoid spoilage. However, as the industry grew, so did the quality of the whisky. By the late 19th century, Canadian whisky had become popular not only domestically but also internationally, particularly in the United States. The introduction of minimum aging requirements in 1890 further enhanced its reputation, setting it apart from other types of whisky like Scotch or Bourbon.

The unique distillation and aging processes of Canadian whisky are key to its smooth and versatile flavor profile. Unlike Scotch, which is often made from malted barley, Canadian whisky can be made from a variety of grains including corn, rye, barley, and wheat. The blending process, which involves combining different grain whiskies, allows for a wide range of flavors and styles. Many Canadian whiskies are aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, although some are aged much longer to develop their complex flavors.