Whether you’re new to whisky or refining your collection, finding a bottle that fits your mood and personality is part of the journey. Two standouts from the world of Scotch—Monkey Shoulder and The Balvenie—offer completely different experiences. So which one truly suits your vibe? Let’s take a closer look.
Monkey Shoulder: The Rule Breaker
Vibe Check: Playful. Social. Modern.
Ideal for lively gatherings, casual nights, and creative cocktails.
What It Is:
Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt Scotch whisky, crafted from single malts sourced from Speyside distilleries. It’s smooth, light, and intentionally versatile—designed for mixing without losing character.
Tasting Notes:
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Vanilla
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Honey
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Orange zest
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Gentle spice
Why It’s Loved:
Monkey Shoulder isn’t just for sipping—it’s made to be played with. It blends easily into classic whisky cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Whisky Sours, and it’s approachable for newcomers while still enjoyable for experienced drinkers.
The Balvenie: The Sophisticated Storyteller
Vibe Check: Elegant. Introspective. Timeless.
Made for slower moments, deep conversations, and quiet indulgence.
What It Is:
The Balvenie is a single malt Scotch whisky, meaning it’s made at a single distillery using traditional methods. From floor malting to in-house coopers, The Balvenie embodies craftsmanship and heritage in every bottle.
Tasting Notes (DoubleWood 12 Year):
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Dried fruit
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Sweet spice
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Sherry richness
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Warm oak
Why It’s Loved:
For those who appreciate nuance and age, The Balvenie offers depth and complexity. It’s a whisky best enjoyed neat, ideal for reflective evenings and elevated settings. Expressions like the DoubleWood 12 or Caribbean Cask 14 tell distinct stories through aging and barrel influence.
Which One Fits You?
|
Your Style |
Your Whisky |
|
Sociable, curious, cocktail-friendly |
Monkey Shoulder |
|
Thoughtful, refined, experience-driven |
The Balvenie |
|
Budget-conscious, everyday drinking |
Monkey Shoulder |
|
Looking for depth, warmth, and luxury |
The Balvenie |
Final Thoughts
Both Monkey Shoulder and The Balvenie are excellent in their own right—but they serve different moods.
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Choose Monkey Shoulder for fun, flexibility, and a modern take on Scotch.
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Reach for The Balvenie when you want something richer, more personal, and quietly impressive.
Whichever path you take, you’re in good company!
Related Article: 10 Types of Whisky: Bourbon, Scotch, Single Malt & Irish
