Master of Malt describes Smokehead as a “superb, cult single malt.” And they might not be too wrong. Smokehead first reminded me of the Laphroaig 10 YO. It has the same intense notes of wood, smoke, peat and seaweed. But after a while, some differences become apparent. Smokehead does feel and taste constructed- in that its nose and palate seem deliberate. There isn’t the natural, comely bearing of Laphroaig here. But let us not get into comparisons much…
For fans of Islay, Smokehead is definitely a malt to enjoy neat. Ice will just mellow the affair considerably, and the full maritime, harsh flavour is better taken without water either. I did however spend some time watering the drink and letting it air- and I did not find that Smokehead reveals any complexity when this is done. For its typical peaty, smoky nature, Smokehead is definitely an Islay archetype.
This is a malt that employs considerable branding efforts- visible in its packaging. There are enough images of it online, so I’m not going to post one here. For me, such extravagance seems somewhat out-of-place with single malts. Yet that may be a justifiable attempt by a distiller to make itself seem more accessible and appeal to a younger crowd. I’m quite eager to try out some of Smokehead’s other expressions, especially the Extra Rare- which can only be found in travel retail.
Notes
nose: wood and smoke- lots of it! palate: peat, herb, fruit 43% ABV