Crown Royal vs Crown Royal Black: Whisky Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 08:15 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 Crown Royal vs Crown Royal Black in this head-to-head 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

Crown Royal Deluxe vs Crown Royal Black: Comparison

Crown Royal: A classic Canadian whisky that offers a smooth blend of vanilla, caramel, and fruity notes, complemented by a short finish of caramel and oak spice. It’s a versatile choice for both new whisky drinkers and those looking for a gentle sipper or a reliable cocktail base.

Crown Royal Black: Steps up the intensity with a richer palate of caramel, molasses, and rye spice, supported by a medium finish that leaves a lasting impression of caramel and baking spice. Its higher proof and fuller body make it a preferred choice for those seeking a deeper, more robust Canadian whisky experience.

Key Difference: Crown Royal Black’s higher proof and charred barrel aging distinguish it from the original.

Verdict: Crown Royal serves as an approachable, smooth introduction to Canadian whisky, perfect for casual drinking and cocktails. Crown Royal Black, on the other hand, offers a complex and satisfying experience for those desiring a rich, flavorful sip. Both whiskies showcase the versatility and charm of Canadian whisky, catering to different preferences and occasions, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Crown Royal Top Alternatives

Crown Royal: Unpacking the Smooth Canadian Classic

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: Seagram’s VO

Looking for a smooth and easy-drinking whiskey?

Crown Royal might be your royal match. Its delicate nose offers hints of vanilla, caramel, and pear, with a touch of warmth from the ethanol.

While the mouthfeel is on the lighter side, the flavor profile packs a punch with spicy rye and clove upfront, balanced by sweet vanilla and fruity notes.

The finish is quick, leaving a light caramel and oak whisper.

Is it a powerhouse? Not quite. Crown Royal leans towards the polite and easy-going, making it a great gateway to Canadian whiskies or spirits in general.

Its spicy character shines in cocktails, like the classic Old Fashioned, and it plays well with mixers like Coke and ginger ale for a refreshing drink.

Not the most complex dram? True, but it avoids any harsh edges, making it a reliable choice for casual sipping or mixing. Think of it as the friendly neighborhood whiskey, always there for a good time.

Fun facts: Crown Royal blends 50 different whiskies, aged for at least 10 years, across 5 mash bills. While it’s not technically a rye whiskey, the rye influence is definitely there!

So, is Crown Royal your royal tipple? If you’re looking for a smooth, versatile, and approachable whiskey, give it a try. You might just be surprised by its subtle charm.

Crown Royal Black: Smooth & Rich

Nose: Caramel, cinnamon. cherry
Palate: Caramel, molasses, rye, vanilla, coffee
Finish: Medium, rye spice, caramel, baking spice
Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks
Similar to: Jameson Black Barrel

Sniffing Sophistication: Light and inviting, with caramel leading the way, followed by whispers of cinnamon and cherries. Think warm apple pie!

Smooth Operator: Fuller body than its “regular” cousin thanks to a higher proof, making it feel luxurious in your mouth.

Flavor Fiesta: Sweet caramel and molasses take center stage, joined by oak spice, vanilla, coffee, and a hint of char. Rich and satisfying, no doubt.

Lingering Legacy: Rye spice, caramel, baking spices, and a touch of oak char linger on, leaving you wanting more.

Water Wonder: Add a drop to unlock even more sweetness and tame the oak char, if desired.

Verdict: Despite not being bourbon, Crown Royal Black is a smooth and enjoyable whisky with a richer flavor profile due to its higher proof.

Crown Royal Black Facts:

Made in Canada, not the USA.
Canadian whisky, not bourbon. Different rules, different spirit!
Huge distillery with millions of barrels, ensuring consistency.
Owned by Diageo, a major player in the spirits world.

What’s the difference between Crown Royal Black and the regular Crown Royal?

Additional proof & barrel management

Crown Royal Black sets itself apart from the regular expression by being bottled at a higher proof (90 vs 80).

The higher proof contributes to a richer and more robust flavor profile, as it indicates that the whiskey has undergone less water dilution during production.

Furthermore, Crown Royal Black undergoes aging in heavily charred barrels.

This process imparts a darker color to the whisky and introduces bitter oak char notes to the flavor profile.

These charred barrel characteristics add depth and complexity to the overall taste experience.