Smokehead Rum Rebel

The now famous brand of islay single malt, Smokehead, has released yet another expression, now called "Rum Rebels" since it has been matured in ex caribbean rum casks. Smokehead sources its whisky from a secret islay malt that i can bet my life is Caol Ila. Botlled at 46%abv, with a golden color. On the nose, it starts with a "rumy" molasses note. Bacon, glazed pork and aniseed. On the palate, there is a mixture of molasses an new wood. Quince notes. Aftertaste, is peaty, developing nice flavors. Plastic, Velcro and Sawdust. So weird but good. Overall, this is the most average whisky ever. It is not impressive nor bad. I have no problem with it, since you are getting your money's worth for $50. A little boring, a little simple, but still manages to pass the test. My score for it is 80/100.

Smoke baby.

Nose: Briny, salt water, light peat, salted ham, pineapple on the retro. Palate: Peppery spice, salty, caramelised pineapple. Finish: Dry, smokey with a distinctive juicy pineapple finish. Notes: Dare I say it, this is like a Hawaiian pizza in a glass.

Very disappointing. No smoke, no peat. Very hot pokey alcohol, but no peat no smoke. Lots of butter, caramel, marshmallow and rum. Quite disappointing actually - especially for the price. This is definitely an overpriced bottle. It’s nice enough but hardly a flag bearer for Islay. I have cut it with some water and it opened it up and significantly. But still not nearly as Smokey and Peaty as I’d like.

They say it’s smokey but this is an entry level scotch as far as I’m concerned. Not bad, smooth, but not smokey or peaty at all. Maybe I just don’t like the rum cask finish. Not worth the cost with much nicer Islays available at half the price point.