Yildriz

Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt from Speyside, assembled by David Stewart of William Grant & Sons from three of their own distilleries: Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie. The name honours an old occupational injury among maltmen who turned barley by hand on the malting floor—their arms hung down like a monkey's. Launched in 2000, it represents William Grant & Sons' modern take on this craft heritage.

The whisky draws from 27 carefully selected casks, predominantly ex-bourbon, which gives it an approachable, soft character. It was designed to work equally well neat or in cocktails, without compromise on either front.

On the nose, vanilla, honey, and light toffee lead, followed by citrus and fruit notes of banana and apple. The palate is round and creamy, with malt and sweet cereal elements that play pleasantly together. The finish remains soft and agreeable, without sharp edges.