Monkey Shoulder

Monkey Shoulder, NAS, 40 %

Monkey Shoulder

Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt (previously known as a vatted malt). It is a mix of three different single malts all owned by William Grant & Sons; Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie.

Here's the explanation for the rather unusual name gracing this whisky:

The term 'whisky shoulder' harks back to our whisky making heritage. It's a reference to a condition that maltmen sometimes picked up while working long shifts, turning the barley by hand. It had a tendency to cause their arm to hang down a bit like a monkey's, so they nicknamed it 'monkey shoulder'. - www.monkeyshoulder.com

Monkey Shoulder is available in Norway at NOK 470 (671801), and in Sweden at SEK 389 (85831).

Nose (20/25): Soft and fruity. A hint of tobacco and leather. Toffee, vanilla, oak and some malty notes.

Taste (20/25): Caramel, fruits (oranges and ripe apples) and a pinch of pepper. Slightly floral. It has a slightly burnt edge - a hint of toast.

Finish (20/25): Caramel, melted white sugar, and soft fruit notes. The mouthfeel does become thinner, and it dies off relatively quickly.

Balance (20/25): Its OK in my book. I might try this in a cocktail, actually.

Score (80/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas