Monkey Shoulder The Original, Bourbon Cask, 40%

The draw is the meeting of creamy vanilla and malty sweetness with ginger, cinnamon and woody spice. Zesty orange and marmalade bring a brighter edge, while the finish keeps to spicy oak, dried fruits and a hint of peppermint. That mix gives the notes a clear thread without leaning on age or prestige. It sounds like a well-judged, approachable Speyside blended malt, with enough spice to keep the sweeter elements in check.

Reviewed by maple_pebble

Nose

Zesty orange, Vanilla, Honey, Spiced oak, Marmalade, Cocoa, Pineapple, Pear

Palate

Creamy vanilla, Malty, Butterscotch, Berry fruit, Ginger, Cinnamon, Woody spice

Finish

Medium length, Spicy oak, Cinnamon, Dried fruits, Hint of peppermint