Crown Royal is indeed made in barrels, specifically new or re-use charred oak barrels. The process of making Crown Royal involves a combination of different recipes, known as mash bills, and distillation columns. These elements come together to create the individual whiskies that make up the various blends of Crown Royal.
To start, there are five different recipes or mash bills used in the production of Crown Royal. Each mash bill is a unique combination of grains such as corn, rye, barley, and wheat. These different mash bills contribute to the distinct flavors and characteristics found in the final blends of Crown Royal.
Once the mash bills are prepared, they go through the process of distillation. Crown Royal utilizes twelve distillation columns, each with its own specific purpose and function. These columns help to separate and purify the alcohol, resulting in a high-quality spirit that will later be aged in barrels.
After distillation, the individual whiskies are carefully selected and blended together by the Crown Royal master blender. This process involves combining whiskies from different mash bills to achieve the desired flavor profile and consistency.
Once the blending is complete, the whiskies are then aged in barrels. The choice of barrel type and the length of aging can vary depending on the specific Crown Royal expression. New or re-use charred oak barrels are typically used, as they contribute to the development of flavors and add depth to the whisky.
During the aging process, the whisky interacts with the wood of the barrels, gradually absorbing compounds that contribute to its unique character. The length of aging can range from a few years to several decades, depending on the desired flavor profile and the requirements of the specific Crown Royal expression.
Throughout the aging process, the whisky matures, developing complex flavors and aromas. The interaction with the wood imparts notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, among others. This maturation process is a crucial element in the creation of Crown Royal, as it allows the whisky to evolve and acquire its distinct characteristics.
Crown Royal is made in barrels, specifically new or re-use charred oak barrels. The combination of different mash bills and distillation columns produces the individual whiskies used in the blends, which are then aged for varying periods of time in these barrels. The aging process allows the whisky to develop its unique flavors and characteristics, resulting in the iconic Crown Royal expressions enjoyed by whisky enthusiasts around the world.