Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:19 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 the differences between Alberta Premium and Crown Royal in my comprehensive analysis to make an informed choice about your preferred Canadian Whisky.
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
Alberta Premium vs Crown Royal: Comparison
Alberta Premium: A unique 100% rye whiskey with a peppermint and spice twist. Surprisingly smooth and offers good value, perfect for spicing up classic cocktails.
Crown Royal: Gentle and smooth, ideal for newcomers to Canadian whisky. Its subtle spice and versatility make it a solid cocktail foundation.
Verdict: Both Alberta Premium and Crown Royal bring distinct qualities to the table: Alberta Premium with its minty rye uniqueness, and Crown Royal with its smooth, approachable character, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Crown Royal Alternatives
Alberta Premium: Rye Whiskey with a Minty Twist
- Nose: Peppermint, baking spice, vanilla
- Palate: Rye spice, caramel, baking spice, peppermint
- Finish: Medium, rye spice, peppermint
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- Similar to: Canadian Club
Nose: Unique! Expect a surprising hit of peppermint gum, alongside cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla.
Palate: Medium-bodied with a pleasant mouthfeel. Rye spice and caramel lead the way, followed by familiar rye notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and peppermint, with a hint of grass.
Finish: Smooth rye spice lingers, along with more peppermint and a touch of oak.
Overall: This rye whiskey stands out with its distinct minty aroma. While 100% rye, it’s surprisingly smooth and less spicy than some, making it easier to drink. It offers decent complexity and good value for its price.
Bonus: Great for affordable Old Fashioneds and Manhattans with a unique twist!
Facts:
- 100% Rye mash bill.
- Produced at Alberta Distillery in Canada.
- Owned by Beam Suntory.
Crown Royal Whisky: A Smooth Introduction to Canadian Whisky
- 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: Caribou Crossing
Aroma: Sweet and gentle, with hints of vanilla, caramel, and pear. A touch of alcohol lingers in the background.
Taste: Light-bodied with a watery feel. The flavor starts with rye spice and clove, followed by vanilla, pear, and apple. The finish is short, leaving a mild oak and caramel aftertaste.
Overall: Crown Royal is a smooth and easy-drinking whisky, perfect for those new to Canadian whisky or any type of liquor.
It’s not complex, but the subtle spice makes it a good base for cocktails, especially Old Fashioneds. It also mixes well with Coke and ginger ale.
While not the most exciting whisky, it’s a reliable choice for a smooth and versatile spirit.
Bonus: the purple velvet pouch adds a touch of class!
Facts:
- Blended with 50 whiskies from different grain combinations.
- Aged for at least 10 years.
- Contains rye in the mash bill, but not technically a rye whiskey.
- Produced at the large-scale Gimli Distillery in Canada.
- Backed by Diageo, a major alcohol company.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price | Bottle Size |
| Alberta Premium | $35 | 1.14L |
| Crown Royal | $41 | 1L |