Smokehead

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 55 by Dave Broom and Arthur Motley.

Whisky Magazine is the perfect complement to the dram in your glass. Every issue brings you fascinating articles on the art, science and romance of the 'water of life', plus page after page of tasting notes.

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Tasting Notes

Dave Broom Nose Bang! Kipper paté with lemon served on an oatcake. Medicinal notes (Germoline) then: fish stock, cow shed, smoked meat. Seems young. Palate Instant dry smoke (suggesting youth) but calms down a little and mellows in the centre. Finish Crowdie cheese rolled in oats, hotsmoked salmon. Comment Not subtle, but is it meant to be? Just needs a little sweet oak to round the edges off, but why is it called smackhead?

Arthur Motley Nose Smoky tea, an ashiness like a fire grate the morning after. Palate A little fruitiness, like black grapes. Some sweetness too and a herb character (almost basil, but not quite). Finish Lots of smoke, masking a fruitiness. Comment That Lapsang Souchong character is distinctive. Attractive youth, resolutely smoky but with a class. Lauren Bacall before the wrinkles.