Johnnie Walker Black Label vs Monkey Shoulder

Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 08:36 pm

Discover the differences between Johnnie Walker Black Label vs Monkey Shoulder in this in-depth comparison and decide which whisky is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Black Label vs Monkey Shoulder: Which to Buy?

• Johnnie Walker Black Label: Peaty and sweet, with vanilla and citrus on the nose, smoke and caramel on the palate, and a long, peppery finish. A well-balanced introduction to peat. Priced around $33.
• Monkey Shoulder: Smooth and creamy, with a nose of marmalade and spices, a palate of vanilla and honey, and a short, caramel finish. Ideal for cocktails and beginners. Priced around $37.

Verdict: Both whiskies offer distinct experiences: Black Label for those exploring peaty profiles, and Monkey Shoulder for a smooth, cocktail-friendly option, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Budget-Friendly Scotch Whiskies

Johnnie Walker Black Label: Peaty & Sweet – A Dependable Choice

• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks
• Similar to: Aberfeldy 12

Inviting & Balanced: The Black Label greets you with vanilla, followed by a burst of citrus and sweetness, all balanced with a subtle smoky undertone.

Smooth & Peaty: Expect a smooth experience despite its light body. The peat smoke mingles well with sweet notes of caramel and vanilla.

Warming Finish: The peaty character lingers on the finish, accompanied by black pepper, salt, and a pleasant warmth.

Great Introduction to Peat: Affordable and well-balanced, the Black Label is perfect for those curious about peaty whiskies. It offers a milder introduction compared to Islay expressions.

Everyday Scotch: In this price range, Black Label stands out as a reliable choice with an age statement, making it a solid everyday Scotch.

Black Label Facts:

• Blend of 40+ whiskies aged at least 12 years.
• Sources whiskies from various regions in Scotland.
• Best-selling whisky brand globally.
• Owned by Diageo, a major drinks company.

Monkey Shoulder: Smooth & Accessible Whisky for Beginners

• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Cocktails
• Similar to: Copper Dog

Inviting Aroma: Monkey Shoulder offers a delightful nose filled with marmalade, vanilla, and warm spices like nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon.

Creamy & Smooth: Expect a smooth and creamy experience on the palate, with minimal initial heat.

Citrus & Honey: Flavors of vanilla, orange, and honey take center stage, balanced by a subtle oak spice bitterness.

Short Finish: The finish is relatively short, leaving a hint of caramel and lingering oak spice.

Enhances Cocktails: Adding a drop of water brings out the sweetness and tones down the oak spice, making it perfect for cocktails.

Great for Beginners: Monkey Shoulder’s affordability and approachable flavor profile make it an excellent choice for those new to whisky.

Unique Blend: This is not a single malt whisky, but rather a blend of single malts from three Speyside distilleries, resulting in its unique character.

Monkey Shoulder Facts:

• Blend of single malts with no age statement.
• “Monkey Shoulder” references an occupational injury of maltmen.
• Owned by William Grant & Sons.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whisky	Price
Johnnie Walker Black Label	$33
Monkey Shoulder	$37

Differences between the Black Label and the Monkey Shoulder

When comparing the Black Label and Monkey Shoulder whiskies, several key differences become evident:

Blend Composition

The Black Label is a blend of 40 whiskies, including both grain and malt varieties, sourced from different regions of Scotland.

It incorporates peaty whiskies from Islay, as well as sweet and salty whiskies from Speyside, and malts from the Scottish Highlands.

On the other hand, Monkey Shoulder is a blend of single malt whiskies originating from three different distilleries.

However, it is important to note that Monkey Shoulder itself is not classified as a single malt whisky due to the specific regulations governing Scotch whisky production.

Age Statement

The Black Label carries an age statement, ensuring that the whiskies used in the blend have been aged for a minimum of 12 years.

In contrast, Monkey Shoulder does not provide an age statement.

Distillation Process

The Black Label incorporates whiskies produced through various distillation methods, including both pot stills and column stills, allowing for a diverse range of flavors and characteristics.

Monkey Shoulder, as a blend of single malts, is produced exclusively using pot stills, which contribute to its distinct profile.

Understanding these differences can help whisky enthusiasts appreciate the unique qualities and characteristics offered by each Scotch.