Whiskey and bourbon are two popular spirits that have captured the hearts of many connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. With their rich flavors and distinct profiles, it’s no wonder that people often find themselves indulging in a glass or two. However, there seems to be some confusion when it comes to the classification of certain brands like Crown Royal. So, let’s clear the air and find out if Crown is a whiskey or bourbon.
Understanding Whiskey
To understand if Crown is a whiskey or bourbon, we first need to familiarize ourselves with the world of whiskey. Whiskey is a broad term that encompasses a variety of spirits made from fermented grains, typically barley, corn, rye, or wheat. This beloved beverage has its origins in countries such as Scotland, Ireland, and the United States.
There are different types of whiskey, each with its own unique characteristics. For example, Scotch whiskey is made in Scotland and is known for its smoky and peaty flavors. Irish whiskey, on the other hand, is triple-distilled and tends to be smoother and lighter in taste. American whiskey, which includes bourbon, is renowned for its bold and robust flavors.
Key features of whiskey production include distillation and the aging process. Whiskey is typically aged in wooden barrels for several years, allowing the spirit to develop complex flavors that come from the interaction with the wood.
Exploring Bourbon
Now that we have a general understanding of whiskey, let’s delve into the world of bourbon. Bourbon is a specific type of American whiskey that has its roots deeply planted in the history of the United States. To be classified as bourbon, certain requirements and regulations must be met.
Firstly, bourbon must be made from a mash bill that consists of at least 51% corn. This corn content gives bourbon its signature sweetness and contributes to its smooth, mellow character. Other grains, such as malted barley, rye, or wheat, can be used to complete the mash bill.
In addition, bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels and cannot contain any additives, flavors, or colorings. It must be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume) and entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof (62.5% alcohol by volume).
These specific regulations set bourbon apart from other types of whiskey and give it its distinctive taste and quality.
Is Crown a Whiskey?
Now, let’s answer the question: Is Crown a whiskey? The answer is yes. Crown Royal is indeed a whiskey, but not just any whiskey – it is a Canadian whisky. Crown Royal is crafted in Canada and follows its own set of regulations and standards for production.
While Crown Royal is not classified as bourbon, it is interesting to note that some of its products use a bourbon mash bill or recipe. According to Distiller, their Bourbon Mash product utilizes a mash bill with 64% corn, which is the perfect proportion to meet the requirements for bourbon if it were produced in the United States.
So, although Crown Royal is not technically a bourbon, it does have ties to the bourbon world through its use of a bourbon mash bill in certain expressions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crown Royal is a whiskey, specifically a Canadian whisky. While it is not classified as bourbon, some of its products incorporate the use of a bourbon mash bill, showcasing its connection to the world of bourbon. So, the next time you enjoy a glass of Crown Royal, remember that you’re sipping on a fine whiskey with its own unique identity.
