Monkey Shoulder | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is a blend of single malts from the Speyside region, specifically mentioning distilleries like Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and the lesser-known Kininvie, all located in Dufftown.
Type: Blended Malt Whisky (no grain whisky included).
Distillation and Maturation: It involves a unique blending process from different stills with varying shapes at the Kininvie shed, allowing for a diverse flavor profile. The whisky is matured in ex-bourbon casks.
Age Statement: Not specified, focusing instead on the blend's rich and complex character.
Physical Description: The bottle is notably designed with three monkeys on its shoulder, symbolizing the whisky's name and heritage. The whisky itself is presented at 40% ABV.

Balance of Flavors: Described as complex, full, and balanced, with a massive taste and a not-too-long aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky offers a rich tapestry of flavors, starting with floral sweetness and light spiciness, moving to stronger spiciness, and notes of leather (jokingly corrected to plastic), tobacco (not smoked but the fermented scent from a tin), a tick of sherry, and vanilla.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its rich and fruity profile, combined with its suitability for cocktails, sets it apart as a versatile and intense whisky.

Name Origin: The name "Monkey Shoulder" is a nod to a repetitive strain injury that malt men suffered from in the past due to the laborious task of turning malt by hand.
Production Anecdotes: The unique blending process in a metal shed with various still shapes at the Kininvie site is highlighted, showcasing the innovative approach to creating diverse flavors.

Historical Context: The whisky pays homage to the traditional practices of malt men and the evolution of whisky production techniques, emphasizing the transition from manual labor to more modern methods.
Geographical Identity: By sourcing malts from renowned Speyside distilleries, Monkey Shoulder embodies the rich whisky heritage of this famous region.

"This is a complex, full, really massive. Wonderful." - Horst Luening, highlighting the whisky's rich and intricate flavor profile.
"This whisky is very suited for that [cocktails] first is not too expensive and second is very intense." - On its versatility and intensity making it ideal for whisky cocktails.

Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt whisky from Speyside, featuring malts from Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie.
It boasts a complex and balanced flavor profile with notes of floral sweetness, spiciness, leather, tobacco, sherry, and vanilla.
The name and bottle design pay tribute to the historical labor of malt men.
Recommended for its versatility in cocktails due to its rich flavor and reasonable price.
Celebrated for its innovative blending process and homage to whisky production heritage.

Cocktail Enthusiasts: Given its complexity and intensity, Monkey Shoulder is highly recommended for those who enjoy crafting whisky-based cocktails.
Whisky Beginners: Its balanced and not overly challenging profile makes it a good starting point for newcomers to the whisky world.
Speyside Whisky Lovers: Aficionados of Speyside malts will appreciate the unique blend and the craftsmanship behind Monkey Shoulder.
Value Seekers: Those looking for a high-quality whisky at a reasonable price point will find Monkey Shoulder to be an excellent choice.