2018 Crown Royal Bourbon Mash 80 Proof 750ml With Box & Bag 80 Proof 750ml

The Crown Royal Blenders' Series delves into the art of mash bills, showcasing how a bourbon-style grain recipe can inform a Canadian whisky. This 80-proof expression offers a surprisingly smooth and approachable profile, highlighting sweet corn, vanilla, and caramel notes. It's a fascinating bridge between two distinct whisky traditions, ideal for those seeking a gentle yet flavorful pour.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A gentle and inviting bouquet, primarily sweet with notes of caramel, vanilla bean, and toasted corn. Subtle hints of dried fruit, particularly apricot, mingle with a whisper of baking spice, like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a faint underlying oak character.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and light-bodied, true to its Canadian whisky heritage, yet with a distinct bourbon influence. Sweet corn and vanilla lead, followed by soft toffee and butterscotch. A delicate warmth of brown sugar and a touch of orchard fruit emerges, balanced by a hint of oak and a very subtle rye spice that adds a touch of complexity without overwhelming the sweetness.

Finish: A relatively clean and pleasant, medium-short finish. Sweetness lingers with fading notes of vanilla and caramel, complemented by a soft, drying oak presence and a fleeting warmth. It’s a very approachable and easy-drinking exit.