Crown Royal XO

A great option for those who aren’t yet comfortable with the boldness of many bourbons/scotches, or may be dipping their toes into the whiskey world for the first time. I’m not the biggest Crown fan, but have to admit that this is an easy-to-sip crowd pleaser. I like to host blind taste tests for friends, and all agreed that this was the sweetest of the 4 whiskey roundup. Sweet caramel on the nose that transitions to honey on the palate, and carries through for a surprisingly pleasant finish with a hint of charred oak. If you’re really looking for it, you might be able to find the slightest hint of orange peel. All in all, the price is a bit steep for what you get. However, this would make the perfect first-time celebratory whiskey (I’m thinking 21st birthday) for its approachability and flavor.

Color is a dark Amber. Nose is initially a little heavy on ethanol. As the ethanol clears, notes of very dry fruit, mild oak, and subtle vanilla appear. First sip is smooth, slightly oily, with notes of toffee and vanilla most prominent. With additional sips the dry fruit from the nose starts to show Finishes with subtle baking spices, primarily nutmeg, that combine with the dried fruit. Overall, the flavor is fine, and more sophisticated than classic Crown Royal, but probably not worth the price difference, particularly with the higher proof Crown Royal Black available at a lower price point.

Crown Royal XO 40% abv. No age listed, minimum 3 years. Finished in cognac casks. Aroma: sweetness, fruity Taste: sweet, fruity, dark fruits, brandy/cognac notes on the back end, minor grains, minor spice, minor barrel notes at the back end. Brandy/cognac like aftertaste lingers, medium body. Overall a solid/good whisky but nothing spectacular/extraordinary. It is worth a try if you can find it below $50. I may revisit this one in the future. Cost: $44.99 plus tax for a 750ml Grade: B

This is my go to wedding gift. It looks nice, it isn't expensive and everybody knows crown royal. Whether they're a whiskey nerd or not, it looks fancy and the juice inside is complex enough to be enjoyed neat with the wedding party. Bonus points if you have a cigar and the wedding bands, it makes a great detail shot. (Image is not mine. Photo credit goes to John Branch IV Photography)

On the nose, strong hints of banana, which also persists on the palate. Not very complex on the mouth, and the cognac casks don’t make a big impact. That said, it’s incredibly smooth with a short, if not almost non-existant finish. For the price, not bad, but probably wouldn’t buy again.

This was a great find at the liquor store. Slightly sweeter and more complex than regular Crown Royal, but very smooth and sip-able. I like the notes that the sherry aging added, and I especially like how this blend isn’t overpowered by the barrels it is aged in