Crown Royal XR (Waterloo Distillery) Blended Canadian Whisky (750ml) - First Edition

Initially released in 2006, remarkably, we have managed to secure the final stocks of Crown Royal's first edition XR (some 6 years later), which has primarily sold out internationally. This is the last batch of rare whiskies from what was the Seagram's Waterloo distillery in Ontario, much of which was destroyed by fire in 1993 shortly after the distillery had closed in 1992. This is a one-off bottling that will certainly never be repeated and a must have for any lover of whisky - Scotch, Bourbon or otherwise.

Enthusiasts should also note that the XR (Extra Rare) label is a series of exactly that, rare whiskies, both of which have been the last stocks from closed distilleries. The latest edition (not yet available in Australia) is from the LaSalle distillery, located in Montreal. A trend of old Seagram's distilleries it would seem. Amherstburg distillery next perhaps?

Limited stocks available. Comes beautifully packaged.

Tasting note: Bright brassy appearance. Moderate aromatics tease out hints of raisin and prune followed by vanilla wafer and custard, followed by drier suggestions of spicy oak. Ends up reminiscent of some high end Bourbons. Genuine depth here, and like most very old spirits, a nose that rewards some time in the glass. The palate is drier and with more concentration than CR fans will be used to, not hugely complex, but with a mouthfeel that could only be described as bordering on dangerous, combining flavours of dry wood with flashes of toffee apple and a vibrant spiciness. The drying oak returns on the finish delivering a finely tuned, high pitch toffee / vanilla bean finale. Delicate spice, vanillan oak aftertaste. You will need to take your time with this, but retasting in succession assures full view of one gorgeous Canadian. 40% Alc./Vol.