Home / Whiskey / Monkey Shoulder
8.3
Monkey Shoulder

Monkey Shoulder

Scotland Malt Score: 8.3/10

Monkey Shoulder is a well-regarded Malt whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.3/10, it features distinctive notes of Barley, Caramel, Dried. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking malt expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt Scotch whisky produced by William Grant & Sons. It is a blend of three single malts: Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie, all from the same distillery group. The name "Monkey Shoulder" refers to a term historically used to describe a condition that malt men would get from turning the barley by hand, which caused their shoulders to droop like a monkey’s. The whisky was created to be a smooth and versatile drink, perfect for both sipping neat and mixing in cocktails.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: On the nose, Monkey Shoulder is light and approachable, with a pleasant sweetness. Notes of vanilla, honey, and caramel are immediately noticeable, along with hints of malted barley and a touch of citrus zest. There are also subtle floral notes, along with a light, woody touch of oak that rounds out the aroma.
TASTE: The palate is smooth and creamy with a rich mouthfeel. The honey and vanilla sweetness carries through from the nose, with a slight fruitiness—think of ripe peaches and a touch of dried apricot. The oak influence is present but balanced, adding a layer of subtle spice and warmth. The maltiness from the three single malts gives it a slight nuttiness, adding depth to the overall flavor profile.
FINISH: The finish is medium-length and warming, with the sweet notes of honey and vanilla lingering. There’s a gentle, malty aftertaste, accompanied by a faint spice and a touch of oak.

Flavor Profile

Barley Caramel Dried Honey Oak Vanilla Zest

Similar Whiskeys

User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Monkey Shoulder

What type of whiskey is Monkey Shoulder?

Monkey Shoulder is a Malt whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Monkey Shoulder?

For the best tasting experience, pour Monkey Shoulder into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Monkey Shoulder?

Monkey Shoulder pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Monkey Shoulder?

The flavor profile of Monkey Shoulder features Barley, Caramel, Dried, Honey, Oak. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that appeals to a wide range of whiskey lovers.