Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch: A Smooth Scotch That Breaks All the Rules

For whisky lovers who like it neat, in a cocktail, or just with good company, Monkey Shoulder’s playful spirit and rich blend offer a smooth surprise in every sip. Here is the Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Review.

Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Review:

Monkey Shoulder is more than just a quirky name—it’s a whisky that changed how many see blended Scotch. Launched by William Grant & Sons in 2005, Monkey Shoulder was crafted specifically for mixing. It broke away from the stuffy, traditional image of Scotch whisky and opened up a new chapter for a younger audience.

The original Monkey Shoulder (Batch 27) is a blend of three single malts—traditionally Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie—from Speyside. Over the years, the brand has introduced limited editions like Monkey Shoulder Smokey Monkey, a peated version ideal for smoky cocktails, and Monkey Shoulder Fresh Monkey, a citrus-forward variant meant for summer sipping. Monkey Shoulder redefined blended malt whisky with its approachable style and bold branding.

• Brand: Monkey Shoulder
• Category: Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
• Country: Scotland
• Region: Speyside
• Distillery: William Grant & Sons
• Age: No age statement
• Style: Blended Malt (100% malt whisky)
• ABV: 40%
• Launch Year: 2005
• Variants: Batch 27, Smokey Monkey, Fresh Monkey
• Availability: Global, both in-store and online

Tasting Notes

Monkey Shoulder is known for its easygoing profile that works straight up or mixed.

• Appearance: Warm, golden amber
• Nose: Rich vanilla, orange zest, and hints of honey and spice
• Palate: Creamy malt, baking spices, marmalade, and mellow oak
• Finish: Smooth and medium length with a hint of toasted barley

Price and Availability

Prices may vary depending on location and policy.

• Standard (Batch 27): ₹3,500–₹4,500 (India), $30–$35 (USA)
• Smokey Monkey: Slightly higher depending on market
• Fresh Monkey: Limited edition; availability depends on region
• Where to Buy: Major liquor stores, e-retailers like Drizly, The Whisky Exchange, and in duty-free outlets

Key Highlights

Monkey Shoulder stands out by doing things differently—blending only malt whiskies, not grain, and branding itself for mixability.

• 100% malt whisky blend
• Smooth and sweet—ideal for cocktails
• Modern, irreverent branding targeting a younger demographic
• Popular among bartenders worldwide
• Consistently ranks high in mixology competitions

Experts’ View

Many bartenders call it their go-to whisky for cocktails. Whisky expert Dave Broom once called it “a gateway dram to real whisky appreciation.” Drinks International’s Annual Brands Report often ranks Monkey Shoulder among the top 10 bartenders’ choice of Scotch.

Users often describe Monkey Shoulder as smooth, balanced, and versatile. It has earned a loyal fanbase for its price-to-quality ratio. Whether enjoyed neat or in an Old Fashioned, it consistently scores well across review sites.

FAQs

1. Why is it called Monkey Shoulder?
It’s a reference to a temporary injury distillery workers used to get when turning malted barley by hand—nicknamed “monkey shoulder.”

2. Is Monkey Shoulder good for beginners?
Absolutely. Its smooth, sweet profile makes it a great starting point for those new to Scotch.

3. Can Monkey Shoulder be used in cocktails?
Yes, it was specifically crafted to shine in mixed drinks like the Whisky Sour, Old Fashioned, and even highballs.