Crown Royal Hand Selected Barrel

I have usually overlooked Crown Royal products partly due to lack of interest but mainly because of my limited exposure and perception that most Canadian whiskies are uninteresting (i.e. Canadian Club) and only good for mixing. Then, through a sample kindly provided by Pranay, I have been pleasantly surprised and found a quality Canadian whiskey and one that I will look to add to my collection. The nose of this dram is is what you find at a country breakfast: Frosted Flakes, Brioche French Toast with confectioners sugar, maple syrup with a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. It arrives in a rich body, slightly hot, which delivers butterscotch and baking spices. Finishes almost as it arrives, sweet and spice with a touch of oak, Add a small amount of water and that initial burn is softened and the sweetness is enhanced. The palate, however, is slightly bitter. A dram that suits well, in my mind, during the fall season as an after dinner sipper to finish of a good Sunday meal. [Dry glass: caramel and marshmallows][91/100][Tasted: 9/25/16]

If it wasn't for the fact that I've had their Noble Collection, I'd have listed this as "5" stars. Really superbly made. Smells like I just walked into a bakery during a cold blistery day. Maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg. Taste follows with that of sweet bread basket, warm right out of the oven. It's good...and a great VFM. If I had to go back and rate the three CRs I've had so far, I'd list Noble Collection as best by far, followed by this, and then the Northern Rye in a distant third. CR is doing everything so right...this isn't your father's era CR, something totally different. And much better.

Nuance is the key here. For 103 proof this stuff is exceptionally balanced! The nose finds tropical fruits of mango and passion fruit with sweet grain. The palate is crown goodness with rye and cereal and the afore mentioned fruit. The finish is medium with fruit and sweet grain. A delightful dram for all but especially for the crown fans.