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."
I was given a bottle of this fine Scotch blend. It was smooth as silk and had a subtle, yet, flavorful finish. I just poured it over ice and sipped it. Anyone who likes a strong tasting whiskey will not enjoy this. Keep in mind a sipping whiskey should be sipped not gulped. Enjoy the flavors and nuances.
Just - ok. It was recommended but I would never buy it again. Think I will use it for mixing. Not good for sipping at all.
It's on par with Johnnie Walker Red label perhaps. There is no hint of smoke though. I don't like how the age isn't specified. It's likely because they are over pricing a 3yr minimum compliance. It's probably $5 overpriced per bottle, but buying it isn't a mistake. Pleasant from beginning to the end of every taste.
Smooth and elegant Really enjoyable without the pomp and ceremony demanded by a Single malt. This could become my daily tipple. Far superior to Black Lable or Chivas
I received a bottle for my birthday this week. Mmmmm, looks like this is going to be a good year! I’ll not bore you with the hyperbole so many like to toss about. Give this a try. A very nice Scotch.
