Whiskey Review/Tasting: Seagrams 7 Crowns
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: American whiskey with a complex background involving Canadian roots.
- Type: Blend of distinctive character, primarily grain-based.
- Distillation and Maturation: Distilled in Lawrenceburg, bottled in Canada, possibly produced in parts in Canada. Matured in American white oak, suggesting a minimum age of two years for American whiskey. However, if considered a Canadian product, it could involve used barrels and colorizing.
- Age Statement: Not explicitly mentioned, but American whiskey regulations suggest a minimum of two years for the color.
- Color and Bottle Design: Good color, indicative of American white oak maturation. The bottle features a screw cap and a British crown emblem, reflecting its historical ties to the British Commonwealth.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: Not as sweet as other American or Tennessee whiskeys, with a very subtle and smooth profile.
- Unique Characteristics: Lacks the intense vanilla and wood notes found in bourbons. Instead, it offers a subtle cookie and butterscotch flavor, likely derived from the grain component.
- Comparison: Significantly different from bourbons, lacking their characteristic sweetness and intensity. It does not possess peat smoke, despite some claims.
Whisky Storytelling
- Seagram's 7 Crown's Background: Originally a Canadian whiskey, reflecting Canada's status in the British Commonwealth. The brand underwent changes, eventually being acquired by Diageo and transformed into an American whiskey.
- Anecdote: The "7 and 7" mix (Seagram's 7 Crown and 7 Up) is mentioned, suggesting it's more of a novelty than a flavor-driven choice.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- British Crown Emblem: The use of the British crown on an American whiskey bottle is a nod to its Canadian origins and the historical ties between Canada and the British Commonwealth.
- American vs. Canadian Identity: The whiskey's transition from a Canadian to an American product, while retaining the British crown emblem, highlights the complex cultural and historical connections between these entities.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "That's definitely not a bourbon."
- "It's a very gentle whiskey on the side."
- "Don't expect it to be a very complex whiskey."
Summary
- Seagram's 7 Crown is an American whiskey with Canadian roots, characterized by a blend of distinctive character.
- It offers a subtle and smooth flavor profile, with hints of cookie and butterscotch, but lacks the intensity of bourbons.
- The whiskey's history reflects the cultural and historical ties between Canada, the British Commonwealth, and the United States.
- It is recommended for casual drinking rather than focused tastings, due to its simplicity and smoothness.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Casual Drinkers: Ideal for those seeking a smooth, easy-drinking whiskey without the complexity or intensity of bourbons.
- Mixology Enthusiasts: Suitable for creating mixed drinks, especially for those interested in trying the novelty "7 and 7" mix.
- Whiskey Beginners: A good starting point for newcomers to whiskey, due to its gentle and approachable flavor profile.
- Collectors or History Buffs: The unique cultural and historical background of Seagram's 7 Crown might appeal to those interested in the historical aspects of whiskey branding and production.