This blended malt whisky is created by William Grant & Sons, a Scottish distillery that has been in operation since 1887.
The name "Monkey Shoulder" actually has an interesting backstory. It refers to a temporary injury that maltmen would sometimes get from shoveling barley by hand. The injury would cause their arm to hang down like a monkey's, hence the name.
Monkey Shoulder is made by blending three different Speyside single malts together, each aged in first-fill bourbon casks. The result is a smooth, rich, and complex whisky with a balanced flavor profile. It has a light golden color and a nose that is sweet and fruity with notes of vanilla, honey, and oak.
On the palate, Monkey Shoulder is rich and creamy with flavors of toffee, vanilla, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. It finishes with a slight sweetness and a hint of smoke.
Monkey Shoulder is a versatile whisky that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a cocktail ingredient. Its smooth and well-balanced flavor profile makes it a great choice for both novice and experienced whisky drinkers.
