Crown Royal, the popular Canadian whisky brand, is currently owned by the multinational alcoholic beverages company Diageo. However, the brand's history can be traced back to its creation by Seagram, a Canadian company known for its involvement in the distilling and beverage industry.
Seagram, founded in 1857, was originally a distillery in Waterloo, Ontario. Over the years, the company grew and expanded its operations, eventually becoming one of the largest producers and distributors of alcoholic beverages in the world. Seagram's portfolio included various spirits, wines, and other alcoholic beverages.
In the 1930s, Seagram introduced Crown Royal as a premium Canadian whisky. The creation of Crown Royal was inspired by a visit to Canada by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, who were presented with a special blend by Samuel Bronfman, the head of Seagram at the time. The blend was so well-received that Seagram decided to release it to the public under the name Crown Royal.
Fast forward to the year 2000, when Diageo, a British multinational alcoholic beverages company, acquired Seagram's spirits and wine business. This acquisition included the Crown Royal brand, among others. Diageo, known for its extensive portfolio of well-known alcohol brands, took over the production, distribution, and marketing of Crown Royal.
Today, Crown Royal continues to be produced at the Gimli distillery in Manitoba, Canada, which has been the brand's home since the 1960s. The whisky is crafted using a blend of various grains and aged in oak barrels, resulting in its smooth and distinctive flavor profile. The blending and bottling of Crown Royal whisky are carried out at a facility in Amherstburg, Ontario.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate a wide range of whiskies from around the world, including Crown Royal. I find Crown Royal to be a well-crafted Canadian whisky that offers a balanced and approachable flavor profile. Its smoothness and notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak make it a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in various cocktails.
Crown Royal is currently owned by the multinational alcoholic beverages company Diageo. However, its origins can be traced back to Seagram, the Canadian company that first introduced the brand in the 1930s. Over the years, Crown Royal has become a beloved whisky worldwide, known for its quality and distinctive flavor.