Crown Royal XO

An excellent choice for those not yet accustomed to the intensity of many bourbons/scotches, or who are just starting their whiskey journey. I'm not a huge Crown fan, but must concede that this is an easily sipped crowd-pleaser. When I host blind taste tests for friends, everyone agreed this was the sweetest of the four whiskeys compared. Sweet caramel on the nose that shifts to honey on the palate, persisting for a surprisingly pleasant finish with a whisper of charred oak. If you search hard enough, you might detect the faintest hint of orange peel. Overall, the price is a bit high for the quality. However, this would be the ideal first-time celebratory whiskey (perhaps for a 21st birthday) due to its accessibility and flavor.

The color is a deep Amber. The aroma initially carries a strong ethanol presence. Once the ethanol dissipates, notes of very dry fruit, mild oak, and subtle vanilla emerge. The initial taste is smooth and slightly oily, with toffee and vanilla being the most noticeable. With subsequent sips, the dry fruit from the aroma begins to appear. The finish features subtle baking spices, mainly nutmeg, which combine with the dried fruit. In summary, the flavor is adequate and shows more refinement than standard Crown Royal, but it's likely not worth the price difference, especially considering the higher-proof Crown Royal Black is available for less.

Crown Royal XO 40% abv. No age listed, minimum 3 years. Finished in cognac casks. Aroma: sweet, fruity Taste: sweet, fruity, dark fruits, brandy/cognac notes on the back end, minor grains, minor spice, minor barrel notes at the back end. Brandy/cognac like aftertaste lingers, medium body. Overall a decent/good whisky but nothing spectacular/extraordinary. It is worth a try if you can find it below $50. I may revisit this one in the future. Cost: $44.99 plus tax for a 750ml Grade: B

This serves as my go-to wedding present. It has an attractive appearance, is reasonably priced, and is a well-known brand. Regardless of whether someone is a whisky enthusiast or not, it looks sophisticated, and the liquid inside is complex enough to be savored neat with the wedding party. Bonus points if you include a cigar and the wedding rings; it makes for a great detail shot. (The image is not mine. The photograph is credited to John Branch IV Photography)

On the nose, strong hints of banana, which also stays on the palate. Not very complex in the mouth, and the cognac casks don't leave a significant impression. That said, it's incredibly smooth with a short, almost nonexistent finish. For the price, it's acceptable, but I likely wouldn't purchase it again.

A fantastic liquor store discovery. It's smoother and more intricate than the standard Crown Royal, yet very easy to sip. The sherry aging adds enjoyable notes without overpowering the spirit.