Monkey Shoulder

Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt Scotch whisky that has been gaining popularity in recent years for its unique and smooth taste. The name Monkey Shoulder actually refers to a condition that maltmen used to develop while turning the barley by hand. The repetitive motion of turning the barley would cause their shoulder to hunch and resemble a monkey's shoulder. This unique and fascinating history is just the beginning of the story of Monkey Shoulder.

The roots of Monkey Shoulder can be traced back to the 1800s, when The Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown, Scotland was founded by William Grant. This distillery has a rich and storied history in the production of Scotch whisky, and it was here that Monkey Shoulder was born. The name Monkey Shoulder itself pays homage to the traditional maltmen who used to turn the barley by hand. These maltmen would develop a condition known as monkey shoulder due to the repetitive motion of turning the barley with wooden shovels. This historical connection to the whisky-making process is something that sets Monkey Shoulder apart from other whiskies and adds to its unique appeal.

Monkey Shoulder is made from a mix of three different Speyside single malts, which are all matured in first-fill bourbon casks. The three malts used are Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie, all of which come from the same distillery in Dufftown. These malts are then combined to create the smooth and complex taste that Monkey Shoulder is known for.

The production process for Monkey Shoulder is a meticulous and time-consuming one. After the barley is harvested and malted, it is turned by hand in the traditional manner, just as it was done in the early days of whisky production. Once the barley is turned, it is left to ferment before being distilled in copper pot stills. The resulting spirit is then aged in oak casks, where it develops its unique flavour profile. Monkey Shoulder is known for its smooth and balanced taste, with notes of vanilla, spice, and honey, making it a popular choice among whisky enthusiasts.

One of the key factors that sets Monkey Shoulder apart from other whiskies is its unique production process. Unlike many other whiskies, Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt whisky, meaning it is made from a combination of different single malts, rather than a blend of malt and grain whiskies. This gives Monkey Shoulder a more complex and nuanced flavour profile, with the individual characteristics of each malt coming together to create a truly unique whisky. The use of first-fill bourbon casks also adds to the complexity of Monkey Shoulder's flavour, giving it a rich and smooth finish that sets it apart from other whiskies.

Monkey Shoulder is known for its distinctive and eye-catching packaging, which often features a trio of playful monkeys on the label. This playful branding ties in with the whisky's historical connection to the maltmen who developed monkey shoulder while turning the barley by hand. The name and branding of Monkey Shoulder are intentionally light-hearted and fun, reflecting the approachable and accessible nature of the whisky itself. This has helped to make Monkey Shoulder a popular choice among both whisky novices and connoisseurs alike.

In recent years, Monkey Shoulder has seen a surge in popularity, as more and more people discover and appreciate its unique taste and history. This rise in popularity has been driven in part by a growing interest in whisky, as well as a shift towards more premium and craft spirits. Monkey Shoulder has positioned itself as a leading player in this trend, offering a high-quality and distinctive whisky that appeals to a wide range of consumers.

One of the key reasons for Monkey Shoulder's success is its wide appeal. While it is a premium whisky with a rich history and complex flavour profile, Monkey Shoulder is also accessible and approachable, making it an ideal choice for both casual drinkers and whisky enthusiasts. The distinctive taste of Monkey Shoulder sets it apart from other whiskies, making it a great choice for those looking for something a little different.

In conclusion, Monkey Shoulder is a truly unique and distinctive whisky with a rich history and an intriguing production process. Its name pays homage to the traditional maltmen who used to turn the barley by hand, and this historical connection to the whisky-making process sets it apart from other whiskies. The blend of three different Speyside single malts and the use of first-fill bourbon casks contribute to Monkey Shoulder's smooth and complex taste, making it a popular choice among whisky enthusiasts. Its playful branding and wide appeal have also helped to make Monkey Shoulder a leading player in the premium whisky market. With its unique history, production process, and distinctive taste, Monkey Shoulder is a whisky that stands out from the crowd.