Monkey Shoulder Smokey Monkey Whisky 70cl
A delicious smokey blended malt whisky from Scotland
Description
Monkey Shoulder Smokey Monkey Whisky
First produced in Scotland by William Grant & Sons in 2003, Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt whisky (the style used to be called 'Vatted Malt Whisky'). Since it's introduction it has fast grown to become the world's third best-selling brand of Scotch Whisky.
Whilst Monkey Shoulder has only been produced since 2003, William Grant & Sons has been distilling award-winning Scotch whiskies since 1887.
The original Monkey Shoulder was created primarily to ensure the perfect whisky cocktail (but of course can also be enjoyed straight!). Like the original, their Smokey Monkey is also a blended whiskey. Whilst the blend is a secret, it is known that this includes Islay whiskies.
This shows a deeper, smokier side to the monkey (as the name would suggest). It balances sweet and peat perfectly - and as the original, was created by bartenders, for bartenders.
Fun Fact: The brand name 'Monkey Shoulder' is a reference to a repetitive strain injury which distillery workers often suffered from. This was due to long shifts turning malt by hand.
On the nose this has deep aromas of oak smoke, mellow vanilla and a subtle citrus edge. The palate has a dry peatiness, which is joined by a creamy sweetness and spice.
It rounds out in the palate with smokey sweet flavours, lingering, but definitely not overstaying its welcome.
More from Monkey Shoulder
Perfect Serve
Whilst this was made for mixing - its easily also enjoyed on its own. However two of our favourite cocktails are:
Smoke a Cola. Take a tall glass filled with ice and add 50ml of the Smokey Monkey. Fill the glass with a quality Cola (around 120ml) and stir gently, Garnish with a wedge of Orange.
Smokey Old Fashioned. In a mixing glass add 50ml of Smokey Monkey, 10ml of Sugar Syrup and 2 - 3 dashes of Angostura Bitters. Fill the glass with ice, and stir until your perfect level of dilution is reached (a minute or two is sufficient). Strain into a glass and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
