Cheaper Alternatives To Crown Royal Whiskey
Crown Royal is a popular Canadian whiskey known for its smooth taste and elegant purple bag. However, it also comes with a high price tag that not everyone can afford. This article will provide an in-depth look at several solid cheaper options that can save you money without sacrificing too much on taste and quality.
If you’re looking for an affordable Crown Royal alternative, Seagram’s 7 Crowne American Blended whiskey is a great option at almost half the price.
Understanding Crown Royal and Its Alternatives
Brief background on Crown Royal whiskey
Crown Royal is a popular Canadian whiskey known for its smoothness and distinct flavor profile. It was first created in 1939 to celebrate the visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Canada. Crown Royal is made from a blend of 50 different whiskies, which are carefully selected and aged in oak barrels to enhance their richness and complexity.
With its luxurious packaging and premium reputation, Crown Royal has become a go-to choice for whiskey enthusiasts who enjoy sipping it neat or using it as a base for cocktails. However, its higher price point may not always be affordable or practical for everyone.
What to look for in a good cheaper alternative
When searching for a cheaper alternative to Crown Royal, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Taste: Look for a whiskey that offers a similar flavor profile to Crown Royal. This may include notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
- Smoothness: Crown Royal is known for its smoothness, so it’s important to find a whiskey that goes down easy without any harshness or burn.
- Quality: While you’re looking for a more affordable option, you still want to choose a whiskey that is well-made and of good quality.
- Reviews and recommendations: Take the time to read reviews and seek recommendations from whiskey experts or enthusiasts who have tried different alternatives to Crown Royal.
By considering these factors, you can find a cheaper alternative that still provides an enjoyable drinking experience.
Price considerations when choosing an alternative
Price is often a significant factor when choosing an alternative to Crown Royal. While Crown Royal typically ranges in price depending on the specific variant, it tends to be on the higher end of the spectrum compared to other whiskeys.
When looking for a cheaper alternative, it’s important to balance price with quality. There are many affordable whiskeys available that offer great value for the price. Some alternatives may even surprise you with their quality and taste.
It’s also worth noting that prices can vary depending on your location and where you purchase the whiskey. Shopping around and comparing prices at different stores or online retailers can help you find the best deal.
Remember, finding a cheaper alternative doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or quality. With a bit of research and exploration, you can discover a whiskey that suits your preferences and budget.
Top 5 Affordable Crown Royal Alternatives
1. Seagram’s 7 Crowne American Blended Whiskey
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to Crown Royal, Seagram’s 7 Crowne American Blended Whiskey is a great option. It offers a smooth and mellow taste, with hints of caramel and vanilla. This whiskey is known for its versatility, making it perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail.
2. Windsor Canadian Whiskey
Windsor Canadian Whiskey is another excellent choice for those on a budget. It is crafted using the finest grains and aged to perfection, resulting in a rich and flavorful whiskey. With its smooth and balanced taste, Windsor is often compared to Crown Royal.
It’s great for enjoying straight or mixed in a variety of cocktails.
3. Seagram’s VO Canadian Whiskey
Seagram’s VO Canadian Whiskey is a well-regarded alternative to Crown Royal. It is known for its smoothness and complexity, with a blend of over 30 different whiskies. This whiskey offers a warm and inviting flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
Whether you’re sipping it neat or using it as a base for your favorite drink, Seagram’s VO won’t disappoint.
4. Calvert Extra Blended Canadian Whiskey
For an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on quality, Calvert Extra Blended Canadian Whiskey is worth considering. This whiskey has a light and smooth taste, with hints of honey and citrus. It’s a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails.
5. Rich & Rare Canadian Whiskey
Lastly, Rich & Rare Canadian Whiskey is a budget-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It offers a smooth and easy-drinking experience, with notes of caramel and oak. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of Canadian whiskey, Rich & Rare is a great choice.
Remember, affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality when it comes to finding alternatives to Crown Royal. These options provide great value and taste, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying whiskey experience without breaking the bank.
How to Mix Affordable Whiskeys into Classic Crown Royal Cocktails
Looking to enjoy your favorite Crown Royal cocktails without breaking the bank? Fortunately, there are several affordable alternatives that can be used to create delicious and satisfying drinks. By experimenting with different whiskeys, you can find a budget-friendly option that suits your taste.
Here are some simple and sweet, whiskey sour, Manhattan, and old fashioned recipes using cheaper substitutes for Crown Royal.
Simple & Sweet
For a simple and sweet cocktail, try a Whiskey Ginger. Instead of using Crown Royal, opt for an affordable blended whiskey like Canadian Club or Black Velvet. These whiskeys offer a smooth and mellow flavor that pairs perfectly with the zing of ginger ale.
Simply mix 2 ounces of your chosen whiskey with 4 ounces of ginger ale, a squeeze of lime, and serve over ice. Garnish with a lime wedge, and enjoy!
Whiskey Sour
A classic Whiskey Sour is a timeless drink that can be enjoyed with a variety of whiskeys. Instead of using Crown Royal, try a bourbon like Jim Beam or Evan Williams. These bourbons have a rich and slightly sweet taste that complements the tartness of the lemon juice.
To make a Whiskey Sour, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry and enjoy your tangy creation!
Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that traditionally calls for rye whiskey. If you’re looking for a more affordable option than Crown Royal, give Old Overholt or Rittenhouse Rye a try. These rye whiskeys offer a spicy and robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of vermouth and the bitterness of Angostura bitters.
To make a Manhattan, mix 2 ounces of rye whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry and enjoy your sophisticated creation!
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that can be enjoyed with a variety of whiskeys. Instead of using Crown Royal, try a bourbon like Bulleit or Four Roses. These bourbons have a bold and complex flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of sugar and the bitterness of Angostura bitters.
To make an Old Fashioned, muddle 1 sugar cube with a splash of water and a couple of dashes of bitters in a glass. Add 2 ounces of bourbon and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add ice and stir again. Garnish with an orange peel and enjoy your timeless creation!
Remember, the key to finding a cheaper alternative to Crown Royal is to experiment and find a whiskey that suits your taste preferences. Whether you’re mixing up a simple and sweet cocktail or a classic Manhattan, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available.
So raise your glass and enjoy a delicious drink without breaking the bank!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cheaper are these options compared to Crown Royal?
When it comes to finding cheaper alternatives to Crown Royal whiskey, the pricing can vary depending on the brand and region. However, on average, you can expect to save anywhere from 20% to 50% when opting for these alternatives.
This means that you can enjoy a similar taste to Crown Royal while staying within a more budget-friendly price range.
Do cheaper whiskies mean lower quality and taste?
No, cheaper whiskies do not necessarily mean lower quality and taste. While it is true that some inexpensive whiskies may lack the complexity and depth found in premium brands like Crown Royal, there are plenty of affordable options that still offer a delightful drinking experience.
Whiskey production has evolved over the years, and many distilleries now offer affordable alternatives that can rival the taste and quality of more expensive options.
For example, brands like Buffalo Trace and Evan Williams have gained a reputation for producing exceptional whiskies at a more affordable price point. These whiskies have received numerous accolades and are known for their smoothness, depth of flavor, and overall drinkability.
What is the smoothest, closest taste to Crown Royal for the price?
When looking for a whiskey with a smooth and close taste to Crown Royal, one brand that often comes up is Canadian Club. Canadian Club is a well-known Canadian whiskey that shares some similarities with Crown Royal in terms of flavor profile and smoothness.
It is often praised for its mellow and velvety character, making it an excellent alternative for those who enjoy the taste of Crown Royal but want a more affordable option.
In addition to Canadian Club, other brands like Seagram’s 7 Crown and Black Velvet have also been noted for their similarities in taste and smoothness to Crown Royal, while offering a more budget-friendly price tag.
Remember, taste preferences can vary from person to person, so it’s always a good idea to try different options and find the one that suits your palate best.
Conclusion
While it will be difficult to replicate the exact refined complexity of Crown Royal, there are several affordable blended Canadian whiskies that come impressively close in smoothness, flavor, and mixability.
By choosing options like Seagram’s 7 Crowne, Windsor, or Calvert, you can save a considerable amount per bottle without feeling like you’re sacrificing too much on taste or quality. Savor them neat, on the rocks, or mixed into classic cocktails – your wallet will thank you.
