Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:25 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.
Unearth distinctions between Crown Royal and Rich & Rare in this comprehensive analysis, and determine which Canadian Whisky better suits your taste!
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 Rich & Rare: Comparison
Crown Royal: A smooth, approachable Canadian whisky with vanilla, spice, and fruit notes. Ideal for beginners or as a versatile mixer in cocktails, offering a gentle introduction to whisky.
Rich & Rare: Offers a light, mixable option with a unique peppermint twist, best suited for cocktails rather than neat sipping neat.
Verdict: Crown Royal provides a smooth, versatile whisky experience, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a gentle sipper or a reliable cocktail base, while Rich & Rare serves as a budget-friendly mixer for casual drinks, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Crown Royal Drinking Guide
Crown Royal: Smooth & Easy 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: Forty Creek
Light & Sweet: Crown Royal opens with a delicate aroma of vanilla, caramel, and pear with a touch of alcohol. The taste starts with rye spice and clove, transitioning to vanilla, pear, and apple. While thin-bodied, it’s smooth and easy to drink. The finish is brief with hints of oak and caramel.
Great for Beginners: This mild and smooth whisky is a great starting point for those new to Canadian whisky or spirits in general. Its low heat makes it approachable for many.
Versatile Mixer: While not complex, Crown Royal offers a decent amount of spice that works well in cocktails like Old Fashioneds. It also mixes well with Coke and ginger ale.
Unique Gift Option: Each bottle comes in a signature purple velvet pouch, making it a unique and attractive gift.
Crown Royal Facts:
- Blended with 50 whiskies from different grain mash bills.
- Aged for at least 10 years.
- High rye content in the mash bill, but not a true rye whiskey.
- Produced at Gimli Distillery in Canada.
- Owned by Diageo, one of the world’s largest drinks companies.
Rich & Rare: Better in a Mix
- Nose: Caramel, peppermint
- Palate: Sweet corn, caramel, oak, peppermint mouthwash
- Finish: Short, cinnamon, mint
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Black Velvet
Subtle & Thin: Rich & Rare offers a faint caramel aroma and a light, watery mouthfeel. The taste starts with a minty note, followed by hints of sweet corn, caramel, and oak spice. The finish is brief with touches of cinnamon and mint.
Not for Sipping: While owned by the respected Sazerac Company, known for quality bourbons, Rich & Rare doesn’t quite live up to the brand’s reputation. Its taste isn’t ideal for sipping neat.
Mixing Potential: However, it can work well in cocktails or mixed drinks like a bourbon and Coke.
Consider Alternatives: For a budget-friendly bourbon with a better sipping experience, consider options like Benchmark Bourbon, which offers a more well-rounded flavor profile.
Rich & Rare Facts:
- No age statement (likely 3 years old).
- Mash bill undisclosed.
- Produced in Canada, bottled in the United States.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Crown Royal | $20 |
| Rich & Rare | $10 |