Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt Scotch whisky from William Grant & Sons, crafted using single malts from Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie—no grain whisky in sight. First launched in 2003 as a bartender-friendly alternative to traditional blends, it was aged in first-fill bourbon barrels and blended in small batches to create a smooth, versatile profile ideal for cocktails.
With bold branding that broke away from Scotch’s stuffy image, it became a trailblazer in the early 2000s whisky renaissance. Since then, it’s expanded with variants like Smokey Monkey and Fresh Monkey, keeping the brand fresh and relevant.
Designed for mixing, Monkey Shoulder enhances classic whisky cocktails (where it really excels) like an Old Fashioned or a Whisky Sour. If you're after a whisky that's fun, full of flavour, and has a bit of history behind it, then pick up a bottle of Monkey Shoulder. You won't be disappointed!
Its quirky name nods to a repetitive strain injury once suffered by maltmen turning barley by hand.
An elegant, stylish nose of marmalade, Crema Catalana (apologies, but it really is there), cocoa and malt. Plenty of vanilla and a sprinkling of winter spice (nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon) alongside a mouth-watering hint of aniseed.
Very malty, creamy delivery with a suggestion of berry fruit. Juicy toasted barley, cloves and butterscotch. Manuka honey, hot-buttered-toast and dried apricot develop.
Medium length, spicy oak and a hint of peppermint on the tail.
This is whisky to be enjoyed. According to the Monkey Shoulder website: "Some say it tastes just like riding bareback on the wild moors of Scotland with a flame-haired maiden on Christmas morning. Others agree it tastes like 007 wearing a tuxedo wetsuit."
A beginner's blend that almost reminds me of the first time I had Red Label. Lot's of vanilla, spice, and burn.
Absolutely Drinkable, VERY smooth, amazingly light finish, elegantly subtle overall. In my opinion rivals spirits that cost twice as much!!
Hot at first and taste like fundador brandy, no worth the price. I'll go for JD, Chivas and Jameson instead.
It's a great blend for the price & there are too many people on here bad mouthing the work of a great blender & comparing it to single malts from other parts of Schotland?! (seems they could do better perhaps). Monkey Shoulder makes the best Old Fashioned or Rob Roy I've ever had!! Such a smooth blend & great value for money in my opinion!!
It is impressive to taste and own such a good value and quality blended of three malts. Good in taste and relaxing after drinking. Smelling is perfect, tasting is amazing...
