How Much Does Crown Royal Special Reserve Cost in 2026?
Crown Royal Special Reserve — All Sizes & Prices
| Bottle Size | Price | Price/oz | Price/Shot | Shots |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 750ml (Standard) 25.4 oz | $37.50 | $1.48 | $2.22 | 16.9 |
About Crown Royal Special Reserve
Crown Royal Special Reserve is a premium Canadian whisky produced by Diageo Americas, bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof) and available in 750ml size for around $37.50. What sets it apart is its blend of select aged whiskies from over 2 million barrels, offering a step up from standard Crown Royal with richer oak aging, subtle rye spices, and a smoother profile that balances sweetness and dryness. Ideal for whisky enthusiasts seeking an accessible upgrade for sipping neat or in cocktails, it's approachable for beginners transitioning from regular blends yet sophisticated enough for casual connoisseurs. In the Canadian category, it outperforms basic expressions like standard Crown Royal in complexity and mouthfeel, though it trails bolder ryes like Northern Harvest Rye in spice intensity—reviewers score it 77/100 on average for its reliable, easy-drinking appeal without overwhelming heat.
Tasting Notes
👃 Nose
The aroma opens with classic Canadian sweetness of brown sugar, maple, and caramel, layered with rye spices, plum, and hints of basil or acidic fruit. Subtle oak, cedar, and vanilla emerge as it breathes, accented by ginger and baking spices like nutmeg. Light butterscotch and honey add a creamy, inviting depth without harsh ethanol.
👅 Palate
On the palate, expect tart lemon, rye grain, caramel, and blackberry notes with wheat, sea salt, and licorice undertones for a balanced sweet-spicy profile. Vanilla, honey, and subtle chocolate provide creaminess, while oak spices, pepper, and ginger deliver gentle heat and structure. The mouthfeel is smooth and quiet, with canned fruit and tart apple adding complexity.
✨ Finish
The finish is medium-length, woody with caramel, lemon rind, dry apple, and white pepper glow. It dries subtly, bowing to corn sweetness without lingering too long.
Popular Cocktails with Crown Royal Special Reserve
Crown Royal Sour — Mix 2 oz Crown Royal Special Reserve with 0.75 oz lemon juice, 0.5 oz simple syrup, and a dash of egg white; shake and strain over ice.
Old Fashioned — Stir 2 oz Crown Royal Special Reserve with sugar cube, bitters, and orange twist; serve over ice with cherry.
Maple Highball — Pour 2 oz Crown Royal Special Reserve over ice, top with ginger ale and a splash of maple syrup; garnish with lemon.
Food Pairings
Grilled steak, Dark chocolate, Smoked salmon, Cheddar cheese, Maple-glazed ribs