Smokehead High Voltage Scotch Whisky (Photo by the brand)

High-Voltage

Islay Scotch whisky is renowned for its peat-influenced character, with many brands touting smokiness as a key flavor component. For some, such as Ardbeg, Laphroaig, Caol Ila, Lagavulin, Bruichladdich (Port Charlotte), and Talisker, to name but a few, smoke is central to the distillery’s fame. For others, smoky Scotch is produced for specific expressions or as part of a blend. Either way, smoke is typically a central characteristic, one that most often engenders a distinct love-hate response. I love smoky Scotch – in my not-so-humble opinion, it’s the epitome of Scotch. Lagavulin 16, the penultimate marriage of smokiness and sherry influence and the “definition” of Scotch whisky. Until this year.

One of the greatest joys of being part of the WWG team is the opportunity to learn about (and sample) the many new brands and products. Such was the case earlier this year when I received my first sample of Smokehead Sherry Bomb! The brand is the epitome of smoky Scotch, and with each subsequent expression, I’ve been in smoke-lovers heaven. I recently received a sample of Smokehead High-Voltage, which brings the concept of smoky Scotch to a whole new level.

Beastly and Brash

This whisky is an absolute beast! Bottled at 58% ABV, this “cask strength” expression is packed with whisky flavors – the brand describes it as “deeply rich and intensely peaty,” and “a rush of black smoke, creamy, nutty notes and a tangy sea salt finish.”  I would go even further. The smoke is like a campfire – smoky, dusty, and acrid, all in a good way! The briny notes are immediately evident in both the mouthfeel and the flavors. There’s an earthy, moist peat underpinning, along with saltine crackers, dried apricots, and bitter walnut notes. It’s definitely hot on the tongue, easily tamed by the addition of some quality water. Once diluted, honey, roasted peanuts, and bitter melon are revealed. The finish exhibits additional brine components, plus some tarry rope, leather, and tobacco, leading to a hint of sweetness and, of course, more smoke.

Final Thoughts

If you like a young, brash, and smoky Scotch, you’ll love this Smokehead expression. It’s most certainly a big and brawny brawler that will assault your senses but in a good way. Smokehead is not afraid to create in-your-face Scotch expressions, and this one does not disappoint!