Smokehead has claimed top honours at the World Whisky Awards Scotland 2026, with Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado winning a Gold Medal in the Single Malt No Age Statement Scotch Islay category.
The prestigious awards celebrate excellence across the global whisky industry, recognising outstanding craftsmanship, innovation and flavour.
Gold Medal Win at the World Whisky Awards Scotland 2026
The winners of the World Whisky Awards Scotland 2026 were announced on 4 December 2025 at a formal ceremony held in Edinburgh. Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado impressed the judges with its bold character and distinctive tequila cask finish, securing its place among the best Islay single malts of the year.
Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado: A Bold Islay Single Malt
Bottled at 43% ABV and available in 70cl bottles with an RRP of £55, Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado is finished in tequila casks, adding an unexpected layer of flavour to Smokehead’s unmistakably smoky Islay single malt.
This innovative finishing process introduces subtle agave notes that complement the whisky’s fiery peat, resulting in a unique and captivating dram that stands apart from traditional Islay expressions.
Part of the Uncompromising Smokehead Whisky Range
Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado is one of eight expressions in the Smokehead range, created by family-owned Ian Macleod Distillers. The brand is known for producing vigorous, characterful whiskies that refuse to conform, appealing to drinkers who seek something bold and different.
Smokehead’s identity is reinforced through its striking bottle design, featuring bold skull motifs that mark it as an outlier in the whisky world — a visual statement of the wild spirit inside.
Brand Reaction to the World Whisky Awards Win
Commenting on the Gold Medal win, 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 outstanding expression that it is. Smokehead Terminado appeals to whisky lovers who adore smoky Islay malts but are looking for something disruptively different.”
Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado Tasting Notes
The tequila cask finish introduces vibrant and complex flavours that unfold from nose to finish.
On the Nose
Peaty smoke takes centre stage, supported by vanilla and shortbread. Notes of almonds, chewy meringue, blood orange and burnt sugar develop, with a hint of barbecued pineapple.
On the Palate
A lively clash of smoke and citrus. Peat and malt combine with toffee, lime, peach and bright citrus notes, balanced by charred corn-on-the-cob.
The Finish
Long, sweet and gently warming, with lingering citrus zest and a subtle sprinkle of pepper that leaves a memorable impression.
Where to Buy Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado
Smokehead Tequila Cask Terminado is available through the brand’s online store and from leading spirits retailers, including Amazon.
