Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky

Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky is William Grant & Sons' core Speyside blended malt — all malt whisky — from Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie, drawn from first-fill bourbon casks. Malt Master Brian Kinsman vats each batch from 27 casks and lets them marry up to six months. Bottled at 80 proof in a 1.75 L bottle, it was built to stand up in a mixed drink. It belongs in a spirit-forward cocktail.

Zesty orange, vanilla, and honey open the glass. Butterscotch, toffee, and orchard fruit fill a soft sip, with a little baking spice underneath. The finish is medium and clean: spicy wood and a hint of peppermint that keeps the next pour coming.