Jack Daniel’s vs Monkey Shoulder

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:18 pm

Discover the differences between Jack Daniel’s vs Monkey Shoulder in this head-to-head comparison and decide which whiskey 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

Jack Daniel’s or Monkey Shoulder: Comparison

Jack Daniel’s: Features a unique aroma of banana candy and brown sugar, with a palate dominated by oak char and a quick, peppery finish. Best enjoyed in cocktails.

Monkey Shoulder: Offers a welcoming nose of marmalade and spices, with a smooth palate of vanilla, orange, and honey, finishing with caramel and oak spice. A versatile blend for sipping and cocktails.

Verdict: Jack Daniel’s presents a distinctive profile that shines in homemade cocktails particularly when mixed with Coke. Monkey Shoulder provides a smooth, approachable experience for both neat sipping and cocktail creation, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Similar Whiskeys to Jack Daniel’s No. 7

A Sip of Jack Daniel’s: Unmasking the Tennessee Icon

• Nose: Floral, marmalade, caramel
• Palate: Ripe fruit, vanilla
• Finish: Medium, caramel, spice
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Cocktails
• Similar to: Red Label

Jack Daniel’s, the name synonymous with smooth whiskey, takes center stage. But is it all smooth sailing, or are there some rough waters beneath the surface? Let’s explore its flavor profile and see if it lives up to its reputation.

Aroma: Dive into a whirlwind of banana candy, with hints of brown sugar and oak peeking through. While unique, some might find the banana note more artificial than naturally sweet.

Palate: Here’s where things get tricky. Jack leans on the light side, lacking the robust body and texture some whiskey lovers crave. The initial sweetness quickly yields an oak char bitterness.

Finish: Blink and you might miss it. The finish is fleeting, leaving behind a lingering warmth, peppery spice, and faint citrus notes. An unexpected gluey aftertaste might raise an eyebrow for some.

So, is it good?

Sipping solo: As a sipping whiskey, Jack might not be your smoothest ride. The heat, pepperiness, and odd notes can be off-putting for some.

Taming the heat: Adding ice helps! It mellows the intensity and makes Jack more approachable.

Cocktail champion: Where Jack truly shines is in the world of mixed drinks. The bold flavors play well with others, especially in the classic Jack and Coke combo. Think of it as the rum and Coke’s slightly more rebellious cousin.

The verdict: Jack Daniel’s holds a special place in whiskey history, but its flavor profile might not be for everyone, especially neat. However, embrace its unique notes and fiery spirit in cocktails, and you’ll discover its true charm.

Remember, taste is subjective! What one person finds off-putting, another might find intriguing. So, grab a glass, add some ice and cola if you need it, and give Jack a try. You might just discover your new favorite mixer.

Sweet sips and smooth sailing: A Taste of Monkey Shoulder

• Nose: Marmalade, vanilla, nutmeg, clove, cinnamon
• Palate: Malt, vanilla, orange, honey, oak
• Finish: Caramel, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Cocktails
• Similar to: Johnnie Walker Black Label

Looking for a whisky that’s easy on the nose (and the wallet)? Monkey Shoulder might just be your perfect pour. Let’s dive into its flavor profile and see if it fits your taste buds!

Aroma: Imagine indulging in a breakfast spread of orange marmalade, with gentle hints of vanilla, nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon swirling in the air. That’s the warm welcome Monkey Shoulder offers on the nose.

Palate: Take a sip, and you’ll be greeted by a smooth, creamy texture that melts on your tongue. Think vanilla sweetness mixed with orange zest and a touch of honey, balanced by a subtle oaky spice at the back.

Finish: The experience concludes with a relatively short finish, leaving behind lingering whispers of caramel and that oaky spice.

Adding a twist: Feeling adventurous? A drop of water can coax out even more sweetness while mellowing the oak spice, creating a slightly different flavor journey.

Is it for you?

New to whisky? Monkey Shoulder is a fantastic place to start! It’s approachable, easy on the senses, and won’t break the bank.

Cocktail connoisseur? This malt whisky shines in mixed drinks, playing nicely with other flavors and adding depth to your creations.

Complexity seeker? While Monkey Shoulder delivers a pleasant experience, it might not be the most intricate dram on the shelf. For layers upon layers of flavor, you might want to explore other options.

The verdict: Monkey Shoulder is a crowd-pleaser, offering a smooth, sweet, and affordable introduction to the world of whisky. It’s a great choice for casual sippers, mixers, and budget-conscious explorers alike. So, raise a glass and give it a try!

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Price	Whiskey
Jack Daniel’s	$26
Monkey Shoulder	$37

How do they differ?

There are a few differences between these whiskeys for you to consider:

• Jack Daniel’s is a Tennessee Whiskey made from 80% corn, 12% barley, and 8% rye.
• Monkey Shoulder is a blend of single malt whiskies, not a single malt itself.
• Jack Daniel’s tasters decide when the whiskey is ready based on color, aroma, and flavor.
• Monkey Shoulder has no age statement and is married in a tun before bottling.
• Jack Daniel’s undergoes charcoal filtration to remove harshness.
• Jack Daniel’s is a Whiskey, while Monkey Shoulder is a Whisky (without the “E” spelling).