Smokehead 15 year old, 43%

Briny and leathery on the nose, this single malt from Ian Macleod Distillers starts oceanic and austere before giving way to a more balanced, sweeter sip. While the nose leans into the whisky’s Islay roots, the palate balances peat, iodine, and salt air with lush sweets like caramel candies, flan, and fruit tart. With a dash of water, lemon zest and tart apples are revealed. The finish is light and harmonious with peat and vanilla.