Black Velvet vs Seagram's 7: Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:48 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.

Discover the differences between Black Velvet vs Canadian Club in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Canadian Whisky is better 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

Black Velvet vs Seagram’s 7: Comparison

Black Velvet: A budget Canadian whisky with a nose of vanilla and corn, overshadowed by ethanol. The palate is thin with sweet and oak notes, ending with a nail polish finish.

Seagram’s 7: A light and smooth blend, ideal for cocktails, featuring an ethanol-driven nose with caramel, and a simple palate of vanilla and caramel, finishing short and sweet.

Verdict: “Black Velvet may not live up to the luxurious connotation of its name, presenting challenges for those seeking depth and smoothness, yet provides an affordable option to make cocktails.Seagram’s 7, while also straightforward, shines as a mixer, offering a versatile base for classic cocktails without pretense.”, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Black Velvet: Unraveling the Canadian Classic (with a Twist)

Nose: Vanilla, corn, ethanol
Palate: Oak, ethanol, cotton candy, oak spice
Finish: Nail polish
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Jack Daniel’s

Black Velvet: the name invokes smooth luxury, but does the whisky live up to the image? Let’s explore.

The Nose: Vanilla and corn greet you first, but a sharp ethanol kick follows. Think popcorn and a hint of cleaning alcohol.

The Sip: Brace yourself for thinness. Imagine water compared to rich syrup. The initial wood and alcohol notes give way to intense sweetness, almost like cotton candy. As oak influence fades in, bitterness takes over.

The Finish: Short, warm, and not in a good way. Think acetone, not a cozy fireplace.

Is it good? Let’s be honest: not really. It’s not the smoothest sip, and the sweetness can be overpowering. Even mixing with Coke might not mask the distinctive “nail polish” note some find off-putting.

Black Velvet Facts:

3 years old: Think young and spirited, not aged and complex.
Mostly corn: Explains the initial sweetness and light body.
Automated distillery: Efficiency doesn’t always translate to premium taste.
Second best-selling Canadian whisky? Popularity doesn’t always equal quality.
Owned by Heaven Hills: Makes you wonder why their bourbons like Evan Williams shine brighter.

The Verdict: While Black Velvet has a loyal following, for those seeking a truly smooth and flavorful Canadian whisky, there are better options. Consider exploring other offerings from the vast and exciting world of Canadian whiskies!

Seagram’s 7: Unmasking the Mixer’s Muse

Nose: Ethanol, caramel, fruit
Palate: Vanilla, caramel, sugar
Finish: Short, caramel
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Canadian Club

Craving a classic cocktail? Seagram’s 7 might be your friend. This blend starts with an initial ethanol kick on the nose, giving way to hints of caramel and sweet fruit. Think light and smooth.

On the palate, it’s not the richest, more like a watery canvas painted with notes of vanilla, sweet caramel, and a touch of artificial fruit. Don’t expect complex layers, but it’s pleasant and easygoing.

The finish is short and sweet, leaving a lingering caramel aftertaste. It’s not meant for sipping neat, but when mixed with ginger ale, 7-Up, or Coke, it shines! Those mixers balance the sweetness and create refreshing highballs.

Here’s the truth: Seagram’s 7 isn’t a single malt connoisseur’s dream. It’s a no-frills blend with an uncomplicated flavor profile. But for those seeking an affordable base for classic cocktails, it’s a reliable choice.

Bonus facts:

No age statement, meaning it’s a blend of younger and older whiskeys.
25% straight whiskey, 75% neutral grain spirits.
Made in the US now, but started as a Canadian whisky.

So, if you’re looking to whip up a quick and easy highball, Seagram’s 7 is a budget-friendly option to keep in mind. Just remember, it’s best enjoyed mixed, not neat. Cheers!