The name “Monkey Shoulder” is actually a historical name for a strain injury that men would get from milling malted barley by hand. Not, as some might think, a reference to having a monkey on your shoulder (which has some alcoholism connotations).

The Monkey Shoulder brand was developed in 2005 to service a perceived demand for “fun-yet-premium” scotch whisky spirits. The original blended scotch whisky was produced from the three primary William Grant & Sons distilleries (Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie), but the explosion in popularity of Monkey Shoulder in the American market required WG&S to pull in products from other distilleries under their control to meet production demands.

The result is a smooth, creamy, supple, and very malty Scotch that works superbly well neat, over ice, or in whisky cocktails (where it really excels). The scotch is created for maximum approachability. The Scottish malt whisky brand has been successful in bringing Scotch whisky to a younger generation of drinkers.

Perfect Craft. Made to be Mixed

Unlike many whisky brands, which are made to be drunk straight or on the rocks, Monkey Shoulder was designed as a mixing spirit. This is a whisky you drink while playing a game. Twister? Trouble? Tetris or Trivial Pursuit if you’re feeling brainy. This is a whisky you drink when you get home after a date, preferably with your date. 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

Monkey Shoulder Blend Tasting Note

Nose:

An elegant, stylish nose of marmalade, cocoa, and malt. Plenty of vanilla and a sprinkling of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon

Palate:

Very malty, creamy delivery with a suggestion of berry fruit. Juicy toasted barley, cloves and butterscotch.

Finish:

Medium length, spicy oak, and a hint of peppermint on the tail.