Crown Royal, one of Canada’s most iconic whisky brands, has recently delighted fans and enthusiasts with the release of a new, aged expression: Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years Blended Canadian Whisky. This limited-release whisky, with a minimum aging process of twelve years, promises to elevate the brand’s legacy, offering fans a refined and richly layered experience.
For those who have enjoyed Crown Royal over the years, this new addition represents a compelling exploration of Canada’s distinctive whisky-making tradition, featuring a balance of classic flavors and contemporary appeal.
The introduction of Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years blends legacy with innovation, embodying the brand’s dedication to quality, artistry, and its distinctive Canadian heritage.
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The Legacy of Crown Royal
Founded in 1939 in honor of a visit from King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Canada, Crown Royal quickly established itself as a hallmark of Canadian whisky. Originally a gift for the royal couple, this whisky showcased the finest in Canadian whisky blending, with a commitment to using high-quality ingredients and skillful aging techniques. Over the decades, Crown Royal has grown into one of the most popular whisky brands globally, celebrated for its smooth, versatile expressions that appeal to both newcomers and seasoned whisky aficionados.
Crown Royal’s product range includes a variety of blended whiskies, from the classic Crown Royal Deluxe to the celebrated Crown Royal XR and Crown Royal Black. Each expression offers a unique experience, drawing from a meticulous process that honors tradition while embracing innovation. By introducing aged blends and special releases like the Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years, the brand not only satisfies its loyal following but also showcases the diverse capabilities of Canadian whisky.
Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years: What Makes It Special?
The new Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years Blended Canadian Whisky is not just another addition to the Crown Royal lineup—it’s a product of time, precision, and artisanal expertise. With a minimum aging period of twelve years, each batch has been carefully crafted by Crown Royal’s master blenders, led by the experienced hand of Mark Balkenende. Every aspect of this expression, from the choice of grains to the lengthy aging process, contributes to a flavor profile that is both bold and nuanced, providing an enriched tasting experience.
A Distinctive Flavor Profile
One of the defining features of the Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years is its complex and layered flavor profile. Drawing from the maturation process, which took place in a mix of barrels that impart specific characteristics to the whisky, this blend exudes notes of dried fruits, toasted vanilla, and warm spices. The 80-proof whisky opens with a sweetness that hints at dried apricots and plums, gradually introducing a layer of baking spices and cinnamon. The toasted vanilla beans add a creamy, almost dessert-like element, while subtle hints of oak contribute to the overall structure and depth.
The finish is equally noteworthy—long, warm, and satisfyingly spicy. As a sipping whisky, Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years is designed to be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, where its full range of flavors can be savored over time. According to Mark Balkenende, the master blender, this expression stays true to the original Crown Royal Reserve while adding a more pronounced fruity element. It’s an evolution of the Reserve profile, crafted to appeal to those who appreciate complexity and richness in their whisky.
The Craftsmanship Behind the Blend
Creating Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years is a labor-intensive process that underscores the skill and dedication of Crown Royal’s blending team. Unlike single malt whiskies, which are typically made from a single distillery and type of grain, Crown Royal blends several different whiskies. These include corn, rye, and malted barley whiskies, each bringing a different set of flavors and textures to the final product.
The selection and aging of the whiskies are crucial steps in the process. Only whiskies aged for at least twelve years are considered for this blend, ensuring that each component has reached a maturity that contributes to the whisky’s distinctive profile. During aging, the whisky absorbs compounds from the wood, which shape its aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. Over the course of twelve years, the barrels impart nuanced flavors, adding complexity and richness that distinguish this aged expression from younger whiskies.
In the hands of master blenders like Mark Balkenende, the choice of barrels and the blending process itself is a precise science. Each barrel brings different attributes to the blend, and selecting the right combination of barrels is essential for achieving the desired flavor profile. It is this balance of art and science that makes the Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years a testament to the expertise and creativity of its makers.
The Appeal of Aged Canadian Whisky
Aged whiskies, particularly those with an age statement like Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years, are increasingly popular among whisky connoisseurs. An age statement provides a guarantee of quality and maturity, which appeals to those who appreciate the subtle complexities that emerge over years of aging. While many Canadian whiskies are blended to create smooth, approachable profiles, aged whiskies offer a deeper experience, with layers of flavor that develop slowly and reveal themselves with each sip.
For Crown Royal fans, the 12-year age statement is significant. It reflects a growing demand for premium, aged expressions and demonstrates the brand’s commitment to providing its audience with new and elevated experiences. The introduction of Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years speaks to a broader trend in the whisky industry, where consumers are increasingly drawn to expressions with character, history, and depth.
The appeal of aged Canadian whisky also lies in its versatility. While it can be enjoyed neat, the richness of Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years also lends itself to creative cocktails. The whisky’s complexity can stand up to a range of mixers and flavor profiles, from the traditional Old Fashioned to more experimental drinks that incorporate ingredients like spiced bitters or artisanal syrups. For those looking to explore whisky-based cocktails, the Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years is a fine choice that brings sophistication and depth to any drink.
Where to Find Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years
Crown Royal Reserve Aged 12 Years is available at selected retailers across the United States, making it accessible to fans who are eager to experience this new release. With a suggested retail price of $49.99, it offers an affordable yet premium option for those looking to add an aged Canadian whisky to their collection. Whether you’re a longtime Crown Royal enthusiast or new to the world of whisky, this expression is a worthy addition to any collection.
