Some whiskeys announce themselves with fanfare; others prefer a quieter entrance. Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition vs Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky: Is the Higher Rating Justified? belongs firmly to the latter school.
Choosing between Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition and Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky can be tough, especially when they compete in the same space. In this head-to-head comparison, we taste them side by side and score every dimension so you don't have to guess.
Whether you're stocking your home bar or picking a gift, this breakdown will point you to the right bottle.
Specifications at a Glance
| Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition | Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | N/A | N/A |
| Type | Canadian | Canadian |
| Age | N/A | N/A |
| ABV | 90 proof | 35% abv), 750ml MSRP $8 |
| Price | N/A | $8.99 |
| Rating | 6/10 | 4/10 |
Nose
Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition: 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.
Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky: A strong smell very reminiscent of apple flavored Jolly Ranchers. Also notes of cut grass, caramel and freshly cut Red Delicious apples.
Both whiskeys present distinct aromatic profiles. The differences on the nose already hint at the divergent tasting experiences to come.
Palate
Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition: Sweet caramel and buttered corn coat the palate with a light to medium mouthfeel. Somewhat silky but overall on the leaner side. Theres 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.
Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky: and allows it to mix in easier when combined in a cocktail or with a standard mixer. Apple isnt the only flavor that Windsor Blended has produced recently; a Black Cherry version is also available. Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky (image via Joshua Wilford) Tasting Notes: Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky Vital Stats: 70 proof (35% abv), 750ml MSRP $8.99, Product of Canada. Appearance: A highly viscous spirit, sticking well to the sides of the glass. Has the color of apple cider. Nose: A strong smell very reminiscent of apple flavored Jolly Ranchers. Also notes of cut grass, caramel and freshly cut Red Delicious apples. Palate: Granny smith apples and Fiji apples are the most prominent flavors on the first sip followed by notes of cooked sugar cane, vanilla, and hints of lemon
On the palate, the character of each whiskey really comes to life. This is where personal preference plays the biggest role.
Finish
Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition: Comments: 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 A brilliant Yellow Gold with stark clarity and low viscosity
Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky: Comments: 70 proof (35% abv), 750ml MSRP $8.99, Product of Canada
The finish can make or break a whiskey. A long, satisfying finish keeps you coming back for another sip.
Value for Money
Pricing varies by market, so check your local retailer for current rates on both bottles.
With both bottles in a comparable price range, the decision comes down to flavour preference rather than wallet size.
The Verdict
In this matchup, Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition takes the crown with a rating of 6/10 compared to Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky's 4/10. It delivers a more compelling overall experience that justifies its place in your collection.
That said, Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky is by no means a bad whiskey. If the flavour profile of Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky appeals to your palate more, don't let a number stop you.
Read the Full Reviews
- Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition – Full Review
- Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky – Full Review
Final Reflections
Crown Royal Noble Collection Barley Edition vs Windsor Apple Flavored Canadian Whisky: Is the Higher Rating Justified? is the kind of bottle that rewards the curious — those willing to sit with a glass and let the story unfold at its own pace.
