Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey Review

Tasting Notes and Review of Seagram’s 7 Crown: A Classic American WhiskeyTasting NotesColor

Seagram’s 7 Crown, often referred to simply as Seagram’s 7, presents a dull gold hue. While the exact composition of its color remains somewhat of a mystery—potentially including artificial coloring—its dark amber bottle suggests that added color might be unnecessary.

Nose

Upon nosing, the aroma evokes memories of a cozy dive bar, with scents reminiscent of stale popcorn, roasted nuts, and industrial alcohol. While this combination might seem unusual, it contributes to a certain nostalgic charm.

Palate

The first sip reveals a slight vanilla-caramel sweetness, almost akin to cola. As the whiskey travels to the back of the palate, it dries out noticeably, introducing complex notes of smoky, slightly charred bacon and beef jerky.

Finish

The finish is characterized by a balance of dryness and sweetness, with lingering flavors of charred bacon complementing the cola-like sweetness. The aftertaste evokes the familiar combination of snacks and beverages found at a gas station, adding to its approachable nature.

Our ReviewOverview of Seagram’s 7 Crown

Seagram’s 7 Crown has long held its place as one of America’s most popular spirits, with hundreds of millions of bottles sold since its inception shortly after Prohibition. As of 2019, it continues to rank among the top 30 best-selling spirits in the United States. Despite this impressive track record, it often flies under the radar for whiskey enthusiasts and aficionados.

Seagram’s 7 is perhaps best known for being one half of the iconic 7 & 7 cocktail, paired with 7Up. Its peak popularity occurred in the late 1970s, a time when blended American and Canadian whiskeys dominated the market. Notably, blended whiskeys like Seagram’s 7 contain a significant amount of grain-neutral spirits (often referred to as vodka)—a whopping 75% in the case of Seagram’s 7. This characteristic positions Seagram’s 7 as whiskey’s answer to vodka, which had surged in popularity in the previous decade.

Historical Context

Seagram’s 7 provides a fascinating glimpse into whiskey history, allowing modern drinkers to taste what their parents or grandparents enjoyed during the Ford Administration. However, in today’s golden age of American whiskey, it struggles to compete with more robust offerings.

Current Perception

While Seagram’s 7 may not be celebrated for its quality by contemporary standards, this does not render it undrinkable. It proves to be a palatable choice when served on the rocks or in highballs. The 7 & 7 cocktail, in particular, offers a pleasant experience for those new to alcohol, as the sweetness of 7Up effectively smooths out any bite the whiskey might present.

Unfortunately, brands like Seagram’s 7 have contributed to a negative perception of blended whiskeys among bourbon and rye enthusiasts. Thankfully, distillers are now crafting bolder and more flavorful blends without the inclusion of grain-neutral spirits. Notable examples include Beam Suntory’s Freddie Noe and his innovative Little Book series, which better align with the expectations of modern whiskey drinkers.

Price and Alternatives

One advantage of Seagram’s 7 is its affordability, with a bottle typically priced around $20. However, several other bottom-shelf options, such as Jim Beam White Label and Evan Williams 1783, offer solid Bourbons that present better value for the money.

Conclusion

In summary, while Seagram’s 7 Crown may not be the top choice for whiskey lovers today, it remains a drinkable option for casual enjoyment. If you have a bottle on hand, consider mixing up a classic 7 & 7 rather than letting it go to waste. While it may not be the pinnacle of whiskey craftsmanship, its nostalgic appeal and affordability keep it relevant in the realm of accessible spirits.