Smokehead 15 years – 43%

Smokehead lives up to its name. However, the cult brand with the skull and crossbones should only put off those who don’t like peat. After all, fans of heavy smoky flavours will get their money’s worth with this spirited Islay single malt. And without having to spend a lot.

After a long time, but only for a short time, the range from Ian Macleod is now growing with a new bottling with an age statement. The Smokehead 15 y.o. brings the classic character of smoky rebels to the glass – more mature, stronger and more complex. What does it taste like? Like campfire smoke with rosemary and thyme, peat with citrus fruits and vanilla and an extra-long finish with lemon, sea spray and – of course – smoke.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Dense, oily, phenolic and salty. Preserved lemon and mineral flavours lead to grilled fish and herbal notes of rosemary and thyme roasting in a campfire.

Palate: Ash and salt notes are followed by soft, sweet citrus fruits, fine vanilla ice cream and barley – interwoven with earthy peat, which plays the leading role.

Finish: The peat smoke lingers through a long finish, ending with lemon peel and sea spray.