The Crown Royal Story: Canadian Whisky with a Royal Beginning

When the holidays approach, Crown Royal is a familiar name on many gift lists. Its story helps explain why.

A royal beginning

According to the brand, Crown Royal was created in 1939 to mark the visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Canada. The whisky was presented as a blended Canadian whisky fit for the occasion, and the now-familiar purple bag with gold stitching was part of that regal presentation. Today the bag remains one of the most recognizable gift packages in the spirits aisle.

The brand is not a single bottle

Crown Royal is a brand with many expressions, including the original blend plus flavored, higher-proof, aged and limited bottlings that change over time. They are not all made the same way or meant to taste the same. Before buying, read the full name on the label and check the proof, so you know which product you are actually choosing.

Choosing by how it will be enjoyed

Think about how the bottle will be used:

• Neat or with a splash of water: a slower sipper might prefer an expression described on the label as aged or higher proof. Ask our team what is available.
• Over ice: many people enjoy a familiar, approachable blend this way.
• With a mixer: if the recipient mostly makes highballs, a standard or flavored expression may suit them better than a pricier sipping bottle.

Treat these as starting points rather than rules.

Gift tips

• Find out what they already drink. A quick look at their home bar or a photo of a bottle they enjoy is a great clue.
• Decide on a spending limit first.
• Consider whether they like flavored spirits; some people love them and some do not.
• Choose a size that suits them. A smaller bottle can be a good fit for someone who drinks only occasionally.

Our bourbon gift guide covers more ideas that apply to any whisky.

Ask about the exact expression

To find a specific expression, call (601) 353-0331 with the exact name and proof from the label, and we will tell you what is on the shelf. You can also browse current delivery selection on Stanley's DoorDash store page.

Please enjoy responsibly, and only give alcohol to adults 21 and older.

Sources (checked October 13, 2026): Crown Royal: Our History.