Chivas Regal 12 vs Crown Royal

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:53 pm

Discover the differences between Chivas Regal 12 vs Crown Royal in this in-depth comparison and decide which 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

Chivas Regal 12 vs. Crown Royal: Apple-Forward vs. Smooth & Simple

Chivas 12: Fresh and fruity with apple-forward aroma. Light-bodied palate with oak, caramel, and pepper. Short, spicy finish. Good value for those who prefer lighter Scotch styles.

Crown Royal: Smooth and approachable, featuring vanilla, caramel, and spice. Light-bodied with a brief finish of caramel and oak spice. Great for beginners and versatile in cocktails.

Verdict: Chivas 12 offers a unique apple-forward profile, ideal for those seeking a lighter Scotch experience. Crown Royal is smooth and easy-drinking, perfect for beginners and versatile in cocktails. Both provide value at their price points, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Easy-Drinking Cheap Scotch Whiskies

Chivas Regal 12: Apple-Forward & Easygoing

• Nose: Apple, vanilla, lemon curd
• Palate: Apple, malt, oak, caramel, pepper
• Finish: Short, pepper, bitter
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Highball
• Similar to: Johnnie Walker Black Label

Fresh & fruity aroma: Chivas 12 starts with a prominent apple juice scent, a fun twist on classic Scotch. Subtle hints of vanilla and lemon curd add complexity.

Light on the palate: This whisky feels a bit thin and light-bodied. Oak plays the main role, joined by touches of caramel, green apple, cinnamon, and black pepper.

Spicy finish: The finale is short and peppery, with a mild warmth that isn’t harsh. Think of it as a quick farewell.

Is it worth a try?

• Not your typical Scotch: If you’re used to rich, smoky Scotches, Chivas 12 might feel different. Its apple-forward profile makes it unique.
• Better mixed: Neat, the peppery notes might dominate. But mixed with soda, it shines in a refreshing highball.
• Good value: Considering its price, it’s a decent introduction to blended Scotch, especially if you prefer lighter styles.

Remember:

• Not complex, but does the job: Chivas 12 might not win awards for depth, but it’s drinkable and affordable.
• Explore if you like fruity notes: If you enjoy fresh, apple-forward flavors, give it a shot. For richer, smokier profiles, look elsewhere.

Cheers!

Crown Royal: Smooth & Simple

• 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: Jameson

Sweet & approachable: Crown Royal’s aroma is light and inviting, offering hints of vanilla, caramel, and pear. A touch of alcohol warmth is present, but fades quickly.

Easy on the palate: This whisky is light-bodied and feels a bit thin. Upfront spices like rye and clove take center stage, followed by milder notes of vanilla, pear, and apple.

Finish fades fast: The finish is brief, leaving behind whispers of caramel and oak spice. While not complex, it’s smooth and drinkable.

Sipping or mixing?

• Great for beginners: Crown Royal’s smoothness makes it a great introductory Canadian whisky, especially for those new to spirits.
• Cocktail chameleon: It shines in classics like Old Fashioneds, but other rye whiskies might offer more spice kick.
• Versatile mixer: Mix it with Coke or ginger ale for a refreshing highball.

Not complex, but gets the job done:

• Smooth & unoffensive: While not the most exciting dram, Crown Royal lacks major flaws and fulfills its purpose as a smooth, mixable whisky.
• Decent value: Considering its price point, it’s a solid option for casual sipping or mixing.

Remember: If you crave deeper flavors or a bolder rye spice punch, explore other options. But for a simple and easy-drinking affordable Canadian whisky, Crown Royal delivers.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Chivas Regal 12	$27
Crown Royal Deluxe	$19