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."
Smooth and rich. Lots of vanilla and caramel and so friendly to the palate. I actually like this over some malt whiskies twice the price. I’m giving this 5 stars in consideration of the price. Just try it.
One of the better blend scotches I've tried Full bodied, not for the beginner scotch drinker
Adam said, it was just a stupidly strong whiskey man.
I can get this for 20 euro a bottle in China. At this price point, there is no blend or single malt that can compete with this whisky. I really enjoy this.
Dollar for dollar, you just cannot beat this blend. 3 pedigree Speysides combined to make a fantastic drink. Smooth, pleasant, very drinkable. This blend changed my attitude towards blends! Goes down great neat or on the rocks. Whether you are a seasoned scotch drinker or just starting your malt journey, this whisky is a must have! Dont buy one bottle, buy two!
