Smokehead
In 2006, the tradition-steeped Ian Macleod Distillers - family-run by the Russells since 1933 - dared something entirely new: an Islay malt deliberately not marketed as an Islay malt. Instead of relying on romantic distillery lore and understated labels, Smokehead comes with black packaging, provocative design and a clear goal: to win over a younger, more unconventional audience for intensely smoky whisky. Which specific Islay distillery the whisky actually comes from remains officially unspoken to this day - insiders have long suspected the same source as other well-known, boldly smoky Islay styles.
Content: 0.7 Liter (€41.41 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.7 Liter (€71.41 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
CODE: BLACK25
Content: 0.7 Liter (€57.13 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.7 Liter (€49.99 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.7 Liter (€71.41 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.7 Liter (€57.13 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
CODE: BLACK25
Content: 0.7 Liter (€59.99 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.7 Liter (€99.99 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.15 Liter (€126.60 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 3-6 business business days
Content: 0.04 Liter (€174.75 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.04 Liter (€199.75 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.04 Liter (€149.75 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Content: 0.35 Liter (€48.54 / 1 Liter)
Available, delivery time: 1-3 business days
Which distillery does Smokehead actually come from?
The source distillery is officially unconfirmed by Ian Macleod Distillers - a deliberate marketing concept that leaves room for speculation among Islay enthusiasts. What's certain: the whisky comes from Islay and shows a bold, smoky, maritime character.
Why is the packaging so different from classic Islay malts?
Smokehead specifically targets a younger audience that doesn't connect with traditional, often conservative whisky labels - black design and bold brand language aim to appeal to whisky newcomers and smoke fans alike.
Flavour profile
Taste: Intensely smoky and peaty with maritime salinity, seaweed and a sweetness that never masks the smoke - bold but never crude.
Recommended enjoyment: Neat at room temperature, ideal for fans of intensely peated Islay styles.
Start with the classic Smokehead.
Facts and figures
Developed 2006 by Ian Macleod Distillers (founded 1933, Russell family). Source distillery officially unconfirmed, presumed Islay. Range includes Original, High Voltage, Unfiltered and various cask finishes.