Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic33.2% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 4 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: Cheese, Citrus Based Food, Aperitif
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierCitrusSweetener
- 2 ozGinBase
- 1 tspBenedictineModifier
- 1/2 ozOrange JuiceCitrus
- 1 tspGrenadineSweetener
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
- Shake well over ice cubes in a shaker, strain into a chilled cocktail glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
Best For
Food Pairings
CheeseCitrus Based FoodHerbal Food
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritGin swaps are risky — botanicals vary wildly. London Dry is drier and more juniper-forward; Old Tom is sweeter; sloe gin adds fruit. If you swap, stay within the same style and taste as you go.CitrusLemon is bright and sharp; lime is more floral and slightly sweeter; orange is softer and rounder; grapefruit adds bitter edge. They are not interchangeable — each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Monkey Gland?
- The Monkey Gland is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 33.2%. A standard serving contains approximately 170 calories.
- What does a Monkey Gland taste like?
- Monkey Gland has a flavour profile featuring Botanical, Herbal, Citrus, Sweet. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Monkey Gland?
- Monkey Gland pairs well with Cheese, Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Monkey Gland?
- The Monkey Gland has an ABV of approximately 33.2%. That's approximately 1.57 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 170 calories, 5.6g sugar, 6.3g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Monkey Gland typically served?
- Monkey Gland is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Monkey Gland?
- If you enjoy Monkey Gland, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Monkey Gland at home?
- Yes. The Monkey Gland uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Monkey Gland with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.