Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:44 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Uncover distinctions between Crown Royal and Forty Creek in this comprehensive analysis, and determine which whisky is best for you!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Crown Royal vs Forty Creek: Comparison
Crown Royal: A smooth, easy drinker with vanilla and spice. Perfect for cocktails and those new to whisky. A versatile, mixable choice with a light finish.
Forty Creek: Sweet, with a hint of spice and a smooth finish. Ideal for a straightforward sipper or mixed with cola. Offers a mellow, enjoyable experience with subtle complexity.
Verdict: Crown Royal and Forty Creek both provide smooth and accessible experiences. Crown Royal excels in versatility for mixed drinks, while Forty Creek offers a nuanced flavor for those preferring a straight sip. Each has its charm, catering to different moments and tastes, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Budget Canadian Whiskey Rankings
Crown Royal Canadian Whisky: Smooth & Mixable
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, pear, ethanol
- Palate: Spice, clove, vanilla, ripe fruit
- Finish: Short-lived, caramel, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Canadian Club
A gentle introduction: Crown Royal offers a smooth and easy-drinking experience, making it a good choice for newcomers to whisky or those who prefer a milder spirit.
Sweet and spicy: The aroma is subtle and sweet with hints of vanilla, caramel, and pear, accompanied by a touch of alcohol. The taste starts with peppery spice and clove, balanced by vanilla, pear, and apple.
Light and refreshing: This whisky has a lighter body and a short finish with just a hint of oak and caramel.
Cocktail companion: While not the most complex, Crown Royal offers a decent amount of spice, making it a versatile choice for cocktails, especially the classic Old Fashioned. It also mixes well with cola and ginger ale.
Beyond the drink: Every bottle comes with a signature purple velvet pouch, making it a presentable gift.
Crown Royal facts:
- Blended with 50 whiskies, crafted from various grain combinations.
- Aged for a minimum of 10 years.
- Contains rye grain in its mash bill, contributing to the spicy notes.
- Produced at the massive Gimli Distillery in Canada.
- Owned by the beverage giant Diageo.
Forty Creek Canadian Whisky: A Straightforward Sipper
- Nose: Vanilla, citrus zest, plum, toasted oak, alcohol
- Palate: Vanilla, ripe fruit, rye spice, almond
- Finish: Honey, black pepper, orange
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Jack Daniel’s
Forty Creek offers a smooth and easy-drinking experience for Canadian whisky enthusiasts.
On the nose: You’ll be greeted by aromas reminiscent of vanilla, orange peel, and a touch of plum, along with subtle hints of oak and spice.
On the palate: The whisky boasts a pleasant mouthfeel with sweet and mellow flavors of vanilla, ripe fruit, and a hint of rye spice. The finish lingers with a touch of dryness balanced by honey, orange, and a dash of pepper.
What makes it stand out? Forty Creek showcases minimal heat and a smooth texture, making it enjoyable for those who prefer a milder whisky. Additionally, its sweetness is well-balanced by subtle rye spice, creating a rounded flavor profile.
Mixing potential: While Forty Creek mixes well with cola for a casual drink, its milder profile might not be ideal for complex cocktails like Old Fashioneds. For those occasions, a classic rye whisky might be a better choice.
Value for money: Offering a pleasant and easy-drinking experience at a reasonable price, Forty Creek presents itself as a good value for casual whisky drinkers looking for a smooth and sweet nightcap.
Additional facts:
- Forty Creek is a blend of rye, barley, and corn whiskies, each aged 6 to 10 years in various char levels of barrels.
- After blending, the whisky rests for 6 months in ex-sherry casks, adding subtle complexity.
- The distillery is located in Grimsby, Canada, and is owned by the Campari Group, which also holds the brand Wild Turkey.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Crown Royal Deluxe | $20 |
| Forty Creek Barrel Select | $23 |