Smokehead Islay Single Malt (70cl, 43%)

Smokehead is an Islay single malt whisky bottled at 43% in a 70cl bottle. It is marketed by Ian Macleod Distillers, who describe it as a heavily smoky and salty malt rather than a delicate, softly aromatic one. The colour is light gold. The nose is firmly smoky and peaty and very rich, with lemon, fresh ginger, plum jam and a salty, spicy edge. The palate is powerful, with peat, cocoa and a little honey, then peppery spice and a touch of light sweetness. The finish brings more peat, drying and spicy, with mandarin notes, and the malty flavour stays for a very long time.