If you're looking for an old-fashioned cocktail that's easy to mix, full of rich flavor and smooth texture, then the Monkey Shoulder Old Fashioned is the perfect choice. This legendary cocktail is made with Monkey Shoulder blended malt Scotch whisky, bespoke bitters and golden sugar for a no-nonsense experience. It's a great choice for those who want a classic drink without all the fuss.
Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt Scotch whisky owned by UK-based William Grant & Sons and crafted by master blender Brian Kinsman. It was created in 2005 from three single malts from Speyside distilleries — Balvenie, Glenfiddich, and Kininvie — making it one of the few triple malt whiskies available on the market today. It has a creamy texture and sweet notes that make it perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks, but it really shines when mixed into cocktails like an Old Fashioned or their recommended Ginger Monkey with ginger ale and an orange slice.
The best part abut this particular Old Fashioned recipe is how simple it is to make. All you need to do is chill your ingredients, pour them over ice and garnish with your preferred citrus peel or other topping of choice. The result? A perfectly balanced drink that combines subtle sweetness with bold flavors of spice and citrus.
Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for something special to enjoy during the week, this Monkey Shoulder Old Fashioned is sure to please all tastes. Cheers!
Can Monkey Shoulder Be Used to Make an Old Fashioned?
Absolutely! Monkey Shoulder is a great choice to make an Old Fashioned. Its rich, vibrant and smooth blend of malts makes for a delicious base spirit that pairs perfectly with bold, bespoke bitters and golden sugar for an authentically classic flavor. The result is an easy-to-make, no-fuss cocktail that's sure to impress. Whether you're looking for a traditional Old Fashioned or something more creative, Monkey Shoulder is a great choice that will always hit the spot.
Is Monkey Shoulder Whiskey or Bourbon?
Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt Scotch whisky, not a whiskey or bourbon. It is created by master blender Brian Kinsman of UK-based William Grant & Sons and was launched in 2005. The blend is made from single malts from three Speyside distilleries: Balvenie, Glenfiddich, and Kininvie. Scotch whisky is typically made from malted barley, while bourbon is a type of American whiskey that must be made with at least 51% corn. As Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt Scotch whisky and not a whiskey or bourbon, it does not meet the legal requirements to be classified as either one.
Tasting Notes for Monkey Shoulder Whiskey
Monkey Shoulder is a smooth and complex single malt Scotch whisky. The nose offers notes of sweet vanilla, winter spices such as nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon, and a subtle hint of aniseed. On the palate, it has a creamy texture with juicy toasted barley and butterscotch flavors complemented by a hint of berry fruit. This balanced blend of malts results in an exceptionally smooth taste with lingering notes of caramelized sugar, oak and spice.
The Pros and Cons of Sipping Whiskey Versus Taking a Shot
You should not shoot whiskey. While it may be tempting to take a shot of your favorite beverage, shooting whiskey can be a bad idea for several reasons. Firstly, the strong alcohol content of many whiskeys can cause a burning sensation when it hits your throat. This sensation can make drinking it unpleasant and could also lead to nausea or an upset stomach. Additionally, shooting whiskey does not allow you to experience the full flavor profile of the drink, as tasting notes and complexities are lost when the spirit is consumed quickly. The best way to enjoy whiskey is to sip it neat or with a small amount of water or ice – this will give you the time to savor all of its unique characteristics and nuances without any unpleasant side effects.
Conclusion
Monkey Shoulder Old Fashioned is a no-nonsense drink that is easy to make and guaranteed to please. It combines the smooth and mellow flavor of Monkey Shoulder whisky with bold bitters and golden sugar for a sophisticated taste. This classic cocktail can be served neat or on the rocks, but truly shines when mixed into a cocktail. Whether you're looking for something special to sip on or planning a dinner party, Monkey Shoulder Old Fashioned is sure to be your go-to drink.
