As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am thrilled to dive into the world of whisky production and answer your question about Crown Royal and its use of barrels. Crown Royal, a renowned Canadian whisky brand, indeed ages its whiskies in barrels. However, it is important to note that Crown Royal produces a variety of whiskies with different mash bills and aging processes, resulting in a diverse range of flavors and characteristics.
To create their signature blends, Crown Royal utilizes five distinct recipes, also known as mash bills. Each mash bill consists of a unique combination of grains, such as corn, rye, malted barley, and wheat. These different recipes contribute to the complex flavor profiles found in Crown Royal whiskies.
Once the mash bills are prepared, the whiskies are then distilled using twelve separate distillation columns. This multi-column distillation process allows for the separation and purification of the alcohol, ensuring a high-quality product. Each distillation column has its own specific purpose, contributing to the overall production of Crown Royal whiskies.
After distillation, the individual whiskies are blended together by the master blender to create the desired flavor profile for each Crown Royal expression. This blending process is where the expertise and artistry of the master blender truly shine, as they carefully balance and harmonize the flavors from the different mash bills.
Next comes the aging process, a crucial step in whisky production that imparts depth, complexity, and character to the spirit. Crown Royal ages its whiskies in both new and re-use charred oak barrels. The choice of barrel type and the length of aging can greatly influence the final product.
New charred oak barrels are known for imparting rich flavors and aromas to the whisky, as the charred wood interacts with the spirit, infusing it with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice. On the other hand, re-use charred oak barrels, which have already been used for aging whisky or other spirits, can contribute more subtle flavors and allow the existing flavors of the whisky to shine through.
The aging period for Crown Royal whiskies can vary depending on the expression. Some whiskies may be aged for a minimum of three years, while others are aged for longer durations to achieve a desired level of maturity and complexity. During this aging process, the whisky undergoes chemical reactions with the wood, allowing it to develop its unique characteristics over time.
Personal experiences with Crown Royal have shown me the remarkable influence that barrels can have on the final product. From the velvety smoothness of Crown Royal Deluxe, aged for a minimum of three years, to the rich and robust flavors of Crown Royal Reserve, aged for a longer period, each expression showcases the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into the aging process.
Crown Royal whiskies are indeed made in barrels, with the aging process playing a pivotal role in shaping their flavors and characteristics. The use of five different recipes and twelve distillation columns allows for a diverse range of whiskies to be blended and aged, resulting in the exceptional Crown Royal expressions that we enjoy today. So, the next time you savor a glass of Crown Royal, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into every drop.