Monkey Shoulder: The Scottish Blended Malt Reinventing Mixology

A Scotch Whisky Born to Break the Rules

In the world of Scotch whisky, Monkey Shoulder stands out. Neither a traditional single malt nor a classic blend, this blended malt was created to challenge conventions. Crafted by William Grant & Sons — the distillers behind Glenfiddich whiskyand Balvenie — Monkey Shoulder speaks to a new generation of whisky lovers: curious, creative, and open to experimentation, whether at the bar or at home.

Monkey Shoulder Whisky: Creativity, Sharing, and a Modern Spirit

With a modern design, a playful name (a nod to the shoulder strain once suffered by traditional maltmen), and a commitment to breaking the rules, Monkey Shoulder has become a global favorite among bartenders and whisky cocktail fans.

Rather than solemn tastings, it encourages mixing, sharing, and inventing — and it’s no surprise it’s now a staple in top cocktail bars around the world.

A 100% Speyside Blended Malt: The Art of Assembly

What sets Monkey Shoulder apart? It’s a blended malt whisky — formerly known as a “vatted malt” — meaning it's crafted from 100% single malts, with no grain whisky involved.

Originally, it was a trio of Speyside icons — Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie — that formed the blend, each adding its unique profile:

• Glenfiddich: fresh and fruity

• Balvenie: honeyed and smooth

• Kininvie: floral and elegant

While the recipe may evolve, the Speyside DNA remains at the core. Matured primarily in bourbon casks, Monkey Shoulder delivers notes of vanilla, caramel, ripe fruits, and a smooth, creamy texture — ideal neat or in cocktails.

The Range: Monkey Shoulder Batch 27 & Smokey Monkey

Monkey Shoulder Batch 27

The signature expression. A Speyside blended malt aged in bourbon barrels and bottled at 40% ABV. Smooth, malty, fruity — it’s equally suited to neat sipping, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like the Whisky Sour or Old Fashioned.

Smokey Monkey

A bolder version with a touch of Islay peat smoke, designed for lovers of smoky profiles and adventurous cocktails. Perfect for a Smoky Old Fashioned or Penicillin twist.

A Unique Position: Premium, Playful, Accessible

Monkey Shoulder occupies a rare space in the whisky world:

• Higher quality than classic blends like Johnnie Walker or Chivas Regal

• More accessible and versatile than prestige single malts like Aberlour or Macallan

It offers an exceptional value-for-money, mixology potential, and a modern, relaxed image. Whether you're a connoisseur, a curious beginner, or a cocktail enthusiast, Monkey Shoulder fits the moment.

Why Choose Monkey Shoulder Whisky?

Versatility – Great neat, on ice, or in any whisky cocktailAuthenticity – 100% Speyside malts, zero grain whiskyModern Appeal – Fun, bold, and disruptive brandingAccessible Luxury – Premium taste at a reasonable priceCreative Spirit – Designed for bartenders and cocktail lovers

Monkey Shoulder: The New Generation of Scotch Whisky

Monkey Shoulder is more than just a Speyside blended malt — it’s a celebration of creativity, modern whisky culture, and the joy of discovery. Available now at The Whisky Lodge, it invites you to mix, share, and enjoy Scotch without the rules.