Crown Royal, the ubiquitous, purple-bagged blend from Canada, has just released its first rye whisky. Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye combines the richness of northern harvest rye grains with that traditional Crown Royal flavor profile.

Rye grains have played an integral role in the Crown Royal Deluxe blend for more than 75 years, so it’s a natural jump for the brand to expand into a rye whisky offering. Produced at Crown’s Manitoba distillery, this expression features a mashbill that’s 90% rye.

The distinct Canadian climate provides ideal conditions for growing rye grains. These grains are planted in the fall, then covered with snow during the harsh winter months and finish their growth cycle once they have sprouted throughout spring and summer. The extra time the grains take to fully mature results in flavorful hints of fruit, cloves and spice.

TASTING NOTES

Appearance: Amber

Nose: Baked apple, cereal and light wood spices.

Taste: Custard creaminess and candy sweetness with hints of oak, spice and vanilla.

Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye is 45% ABV and will be sold at a suggested retail price of $29.99 for a 750ml bottle.