If you are like me, when presented with a scotch menu listing a Scotch named Monkey Shoulder, then you are going to want to try it. Intrigued by the name, I learned from their website, http://www.monkeyshoulder.com/about/ that the name stems from a condition their maltmen at times got after working long shifts turning the barley by hand. The site indicated that the condition caused their arms to hang down a bit as a monkey hence the name Monkey Shoulder.

If the name alone doesn’t peak your curiosity then maybe the fact that it contains the three malts will. The three malts used in Monkey Shoulder are, Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie.

Now I’ll be honest, although I didn’t absolutely love it, I did enjoy this blend. My boyfriend on the other hand didn’t like it at all, so as I always say, everyone’s palate is different when it comes to whisky.

Do I think it’s worth trying, yes I do especially if you have enjoyed in more than one occasion any of the whiskies used for the blend. Out of the three malts used for the blend, I have tasted both Glenfiddich and Balvenie. Both of which I really enjoy on their own.

For a blend, Monkey Shoulder is pretty smooth. On the nose I got woodsmoke and oak. On the palate I tasted vanilla; there was a slight burn with hints of spice.  Now the finish is the reason why I only enjoyed it and didn’t absolutely love it. The finish was a bit harsh and didn’t leave a great after taste. The beginning and middle were great; it was the ending that just lacked a bit for me.

If you look at it differently and also consider the price, price wise Monkey Shoulder is pretty darn good. A bottle will cost around $30-$40. In the whisky world that is extremely affordable which is another reason why I think it’s worth the try.

It’s good and affordable so why not try it. You might find that unlike me, you do enjoy the finish. If you have tried it and really enjoy I would love to hear from you so please drop me a comment.

Cheers!