Is Crown Royal a bourbon or a whiskey?

You've got a bottle of that iconic purple bag in hand, or maybe you're just curious as you browse the aisles. A common question we hear at RealLiquor1.com is: "Is Crown Royal a bourbon or a whiskey?"

Let's cut right to the chase:

Crown Royal is a Canadian whisky, not a bourbon.

While both are types of whiskey, bourbon is a distinctly American spirit with specific legal requirements that Crown Royal, being Canadian, does not meet.

Understanding the Difference: Canadian Whisky vs. Bourbon

To truly understand why Crown Royal is a Canadian whisky and not a bourbon, let's break down the key characteristics of each:

What Makes a Bourbon, Bourbon?

For a spirit to be legally classified as bourbon, it must adhere to the following rules, primarily in the United States:

1. Made in the United States: This is non-negotiable. Bourbon is an American invention.
2. Minimum 51% Corn: The grain mixture (mash bill) used to produce the whiskey must be at least 51% corn.
3. Aged in New, Charred Oak Containers: Bourbon must be aged in barrels that are brand new and have been charred (burned) on the inside. This charring process contributes significantly to bourbon's characteristic flavor and color.
4. Distilled to No More Than 160 Proof (80% ABV): The distillation process has a proof limit.
5. Entered into Barrel at No More Than 125 Proof (62.5% ABV): The spirit must be barreled at a specific proof.
6. Bottled at No Less Than 80 Proof (40% ABV): The final product in the bottle must meet a minimum alcohol content.

What Defines Canadian Whisky (Like Crown Royal)?

Canadian whisky also has its own set of regulations, which differ significantly from bourbon:

1. Made in Canada: As the name suggests, it must be produced north of the border.
2. Aged for at Least 3 Years: Canadian whisky must be aged in wooden barrels (typically oak) for a minimum of three years.
3. Blended (Typically): Canadian whiskies are most often blended, meaning they combine different grain whiskies (like corn, rye, and barley) and can include a percentage of aged spirits. This blending allows for a consistent and often smoother profile.
4. Variety of Grains and Barrels: Unlike bourbon's strict corn requirement, Canadian whiskies can use a wider variety of grains in their mash bills and are not restricted to new, charred oak barrels. They often use previously used barrels.

Crown Royal: A Proud Canadian Whisky

Crown Royal is a prime example of a masterfully blended Canadian whisky. It's known for its incredibly smooth and mellow profile, a result of its unique blend of up to 50 distinct whiskies aged in a variety of oak barrels.

While Crown Royal does offer expressions like "Blender's Mash," which might evoke flavors associated with bourbon due to a higher corn content in its blend, it still remains a product of Canada and does not meet the legal criteria to be labeled as a bourbon. It's a testament to the versatility of Canadian whisky that it can achieve such a range of flavor profiles.

Why Does This Matter to You?

Understanding the distinction isn't just about trivia; it's about appreciating the unique craftsmanship and heritage behind each bottle. Whether you prefer the bold, often sweeter notes of a bourbon or the smooth, approachable character of a Canadian whisky like Crown Royal, knowing the difference enhances your enjoyment and allows you to make informed choices for your palate.

At RealLiquor1.com, we're passionate about helping you explore the world of spirits. We stock a wide range of whiskies, bourbons, and more, ensuring you can always find your favorite or discover something new.