How to Drink Monkey Shoulder

Last Updated on: 26th April 2024, 05:55 pm

Discover the best way of drinking Monkey Shoulder: Ideas for tasting, pairing, and enjoying this affordable Scotch.

Written by: J Highland

Here are the concise key takeaways for the best way to drink Monkey Shoulder:

• Ideal for Cocktails: Best used in cocktails due to its versatile flavor and affordability, making it ideal for experimentation, suggests whisky expert Neil Coleman.
• Water Addition: Adding water can smooth out the spicy finish and enhance sweetness.
• Sipping: Suitable for sipping, but may be flat for some due to its 40% ABV.
• Glassware: Simple whiskey tumbler or rocks glass recommended.
• Food Pairings: Pairs well with soft cheeses, dark chocolate, grilled meats, fruit tarts, and roasted almonds.
• 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.

Best Way to Drink Monkey Shoulder

“Monkey Shoulder is exceptionally suited for cocktail crafting. Among Scotch Whiskies, it is arguably one of the best to blend into cocktails.”, states whisky expert Neil Coleman.

Its spicy note nicely blends with diverse mixers, elevating the cocktail experience to a new level.

This isn’t a mere claim; its taste profile truly stands testament.

The best part?

Monkey Shoulder comes at a price point that encourages creativity.

Whether you’re a budding bartender or a seasoned mixologist, its affordability ensures there’s room for experimentation without breaking the bank.

So, the next time you’re thinking of concocting a scotch-based cocktail, Monkey Shoulder should be your go-to choice.

With its dynamic flavor profile and reasonable pricing, it offers both quality and value, ensuring every cocktail leaves a lasting impression.

• Also read: Similar Whiskies to Monkey Shoulder
• Learn more: Monkey Shoulder Website

Sipping Neat

Monkey Shoulder is decent for sipping, though its slightly spicy finish might not appeal to everyone.

While adding a bit of water can smooth it out, considering it’s bottled at 40% ABV, it can become a bit flat.

Personally, I wouldn’t be my first choice for sipping.

Selecting the Right Glassware

Fancy glassware isn’t necessary for enjoying this Scotch; a simple whiskey tumbler or rocks glass are enough to fully appreciate this pour.

Tasting Notes

Nose:

Monkey Shoulder presents an aroma of marmalade, mingled with hints of vanilla, nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon.

Palate:

When sipped, its creamy feel is accompanied by subtle warmth and notes of vanilla, orange, honey, and a bit of oaky spiciness.

Finish:

Its finish is brief but leaves traces of caramel and a persistent oaky bitterness.

Adding water brings out a sweeter nuance and tones down the oakiness.

Monkey Shoulder in Cocktails

Monkey Shoulder is ideal for mixing drinks.

Here are some simple cocktail ideas that anyone can whip up without any expertise:

Whisky Sour

• 2 oz Scotch
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup Instructions: Combine in a shaker with ice, shake, and strain into a glass. Garnish with a cherry.

Highball

• 2 oz Scotch
• 4 oz soda water
• Lemon twist for garnish Instructions: Mix in a highball glass with ice and garnish.

Old Fashioned

• 2 oz Scotch
• 1 sugar cube
• 2 dashes bitters Instructions: Muddle sugar and bitters, add ice, pour whisky, and stir.

Food Pairings

Here are some delectable pairings to consider:

• Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like Brie contrast beautifully with its malty sweetness.
• Dark Chocolate: The whisky’s vanilla notes play off the chocolate’s bitterness.
• Grilled Meats: Its spicy profile complements charred flavors.
• Fruit Tart: The whisky’s zesty notes resonate with fruit flavors.
• Roasted Almonds: Their nuttiness echoes Monkey Shoulder’s toasted undertones.

Storing Your Whisky

Keep Monkey Shoulder upright, shielded from sunlight, in a cool place.

When below a quarter full, aim to finish it to retain its authentic taste.

When stored properly it can last for several years.

About Monkey Shoulder

Monkey Shoulder is a unique blend of single malt whiskies, with some originating from renowned distilleries like Glenfiddich and Balvenie.

Unlike many whiskies, it doesn’t carry an age statement.

The name “Monkey Shoulder” is a nod to a historical ailment that afflicted maltmen.

These individuals were responsible for hand-turning grain in a malthouse, and the repetitive motion sometimes resulted in an injury that caused one arm to droop, reminiscent of a monkey’s arm.