Monkey Shoulder Batch 27 review

Tried a sample of Monkey Shoulder Batch 27. A blended malt from William Grant & Sons, mixed together with malts from Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie. The funny name comes from the temporary injuries, that malt men suffered at distilleries, when turning the barley by hand.

EMMANUELLE without any risk taking

This batch of Monkey Shoulder is a real softy. We’re talking about Emmanuelle here. When it comes to taste, this one doesn’t take dangerous risks like Emmanuelle. The makers of Monkey Shoulder probably did.

Monkey Shoulder is decent for a blended malt but it doesn’t get near to the big boys of malt vatting (Big Peat, Compass Box etc.). A smooth and light dram. Lacks character but has some certainty. Like Matthias Sammer or some other German footballer from the mid 1990’s.

Nose: Very sweet. Floral notes dominate with some citrus, honey and oak on the back.

Taste: Honey is the biggest factor but everything stays delicate. Soft start that gets even softer with honey, Vanilla and wee spices like cinnamon.

Finish: Soft and sweet, short lasting.

Balance: Monkey Shoulder Batch 27 has nice balance but it gives you no “wow effect”. Average whisky that doesn’t leave you grinning nor cheering.

Colour: Full gold
Nose: 21 | Taste: 18 | Finish: 17 | Balance: 19
Overall score: 75

Distilleries: Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie
Bottled by: William Grant & Sons
ABV: 40%