Smokehead takes the crown at the World Whisky Awards

Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado Whisky attained a Gold Medal in the Single Malt No Age Statement Scotch Islay segment of the World Whisky Awards Scotland 2026.

The Awards winners were announced on 4 December 2025 at a formal ceremony held in Edinburgh.

Smokehead Terminado (43% ABV / 70cl /RRP 55) is created by finishing the distinctive Smokehead Islay single malt in tequila casks. The result is a unique and fascinating whisky.

This expression is one of eight in the Smokehead range, created by the family-firm Ian Macleod Distillers. These are vigorous whiskies that stands out from the crowd - uncompromising, unexpected and defiantly different. Smokehead embodies a wild spirit that’s created for and loved by proud non-conformists. The bottles feature bold and distinctive skull motifs, an outlier in the whisky world and a sign of what lies within.

Galina Grozdanova, Senior Brand Manager for Smokehead, said: “Naturally, we are thrilled but not surprised that this exceptional spirit caught the imagination and admiration of the judges. We thank them for recognising this whisky as the exceptional expression that it is. Smokehead Terminado appeals to those whisky lovers who love smoky Islay whiskies but who wish for something that is disruptively different”.

Tasting notes:

The tequila cask finish of Smokehead Terminado introduces notes of agave to fiery peat delivering an array of sensational tastes from the time you first nose this whisky through to its long finish.

On the nose: Peaty smoke struts with vanilla and notes of shortbread. Experience almonds, chewy meringue, blood orange and burnt sugar with a hint of barbecued pineapple.

Palate: A riot of smoke and citrus. Peat and malt mingle with toffee, lime, peach and citrus, balancing with charred corn-on-the-cob.

Finish: The finish is long and sweet with gentle heat. A dash of citrus and a sprinkle of pepper make this linger memorably.

Smokehead is available through the brand’s online store and at good spirits retailers including Amazon.