Monkey Shoulder Whisky is indeed made in Scotland, specifically at the Kininvie Distillery in Speyside. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting this distillery and witnessing the whisky-making process firsthand.
The Kininvie Distillery, nestled in the picturesque Speyside region, is a relatively small distillery compared to some of the larger and more well-known distilleries in Scotland. However, what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in character and craftsmanship.
One of the unique aspects of Monkey Shoulder Whisky is that it is a blended malt, meaning it is made from a combination of different single malt whiskies. This allows the master blender to create a unique flavor profile by selecting specific whiskies that complement each other.
At Kininvie Distillery, the focus is on blending and storage rather than the traditional distillation process. This means that they don't have the same elaborate stills and equipment that you might find at other distilleries. Instead, the emphasis is on the art of blending and creating a consistent and high-quality product.
During my visit to the distillery, I had the opportunity to witness the blending process firsthand. The master blender carefully selected the individual single malt whiskies that would be used in Monkey Shoulder, taking into account their unique characteristics and flavors. This attention to detail and craftsmanship is what sets Monkey Shoulder apart from other whiskies.
Once the whiskies have been blended, they are then left to mature and develop their flavors in oak casks. The distillery has a dedicated warehouse where these casks are stored, allowing the whisky to age and take on the rich and complex flavors that we associate with Scotch whisky.
It's worth noting that Monkey Shoulder takes its name from a term used in the whisky industry to describe a temporary strain or injury that can be caused by the repetitive motion of turning barley by hand during malting. This nod to tradition and the hard work that goes into creating whisky is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Yes, Monkey Shoulder Whisky is proudly made in Scotland, specifically at the Kininvie Distillery in Speyside. The distillery may not have all the bells and whistles of larger distilleries, but it more than makes up for it with its dedication to blending and creating a unique and delicious whisky.