Canadian

Whisky Review: Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition

We review Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition, a limited edition Canadian whisky made from 100% barley.

OVERALL RATING

6
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Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition review

Tasting Notes

About:

ABV 45% or 90 proof; 100% barley (85% unmalted, 15% malted); 79.99 750ml; No age statement, blend of whiskies all aged at least 5 years
Appearance:
A brilliant Yellow Gold with stark clarity and low viscosity.
Nose:
A medium sized burst of caramel is the first note that greets you, followed by some oak, cereal, and roasted almond, all with an underlying, subtle ripe green apple. Some time in the glass and the bouquet came out much rounder and softer, with Vanilla playing a more prominent role. About forty minutes in the glass and the sweetness really coalesced into some almost mouthwatering notes of browned butter and marzipan.
Palate:
Sweet caramel and buttered corn coat the palate with a light to medium mouthfeel. Somewhat silky but overall on the leaner side. There’s a touch of “cinnamon sprinkled on wet clay” happening on the mid palate. The finish is smooth and sweet with an echo of that spice but it disappears with a disappointing precipitousness.
Finish:
Comments:
This is solid, if underwhelming and ultimately uninspiring, whisky. Goes down easy but in a kind of mindless way. It would perhaps be best enjoyed as a highball with a lemon twist on a summer afternoon. There is nothing inherently ‘wrong’ with it, I just don’t find it has the pedigree to be in the class to which Crown appears to be marketing it.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Jason McBeth

Jason McBeth, a seasoned hospitality professional and consultant, boasts nearly 15 years of experience curating fine dining beverage programs. His impressive resume includes collaborations with six Michelin Star and/or James Beard award-winning restaurants. As a consultant, McBeth has conceptualized and implemented distinctive cocktail programs across diverse markets, ranging from Los Angeles to Lincoln, Nebraska, and Richmond, Virginia. Beyond the realm of spirits and hospitality, his passions lie in poetry and basketball. When not indulging in his professional pursuits, McBeth finds solace in shucking oysters for his wife, accompanied by a bottle or two of grower Champagne.

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