Monkey Shoulder whisky was first launched in 2005 and quickly gained popularity among whisky enthusiasts. The name “Monkey Shoulder” is a reference to a condition that maltmen used to develop from turning barley by hand, a repetitive task that often caused their shoulders to hunch. This playful and unique name reflects the company's ability to combine tradition with a modern and approachable style.
One of the things that sets Monkey Shoulder apart is its unique production process. Unlike many other whiskies, Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt whisky, meaning it is made from a combination of single malt whiskies rather than including any grain whisky. This gives Monkey Shoulder its distinct flavor profile and smoothness.
The blending process for Monkey Shoulder involves carefully selecting and marrying together single malts from three of Speyside's renowned distilleries: Balvenie, Glenfiddich, and Kininvie. Each whisky brings its own unique characteristics to the blend, resulting in a flavorful and complex whisky that is loved by many.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing Monkey Shoulder firsthand. Its smooth and approachable nature makes it a great whisky for both beginners and seasoned whisky drinkers. The blend of fruity, vanilla, and honey notes creates a delightful and well-balanced flavor profile that is both enjoyable to sip on its own or to mix in cocktails.
In addition to its exceptional taste, Monkey Shoulder also stands out with its distinctive packaging. The bottle features a playful design, with three brass monkeys hanging from the top of the bottle, symbolizing the three distilleries that contribute to the blend. This attention to detail and creativity in the packaging further adds to the overall experience of enjoying Monkey Shoulder.