Ian MacLeod Whisky

Bottlings from Ian Macleod, arguably Scotland’s largest independent bottler of blended whisky. The company produces and sells over 15 million bottles annually, primarily "own brand" blends for major retail chains. A few years ago, Ian Macleod began releasing stock from their extensive reserves of quality malt whisky at very reasonable prices (see for yourself).

Chieftain’s Choice: A range of 15–20 distinctive single malts bottled at 43% and 46%, along with a smaller selection at cask strength. Some editions feature alternative finishes such as port or rum casks. Presented in updated packaging with detailed label information including: distillery, region, age, ABV, cask type and finish (if applicable), bottling year and month, distillation year and month, cask number, and total bottles produced.

Macleod’s Malt: A series of five single malts, each at least 8 years old and bottled at 40%. These are regional malts representing five whisky regions of Scotland. The Island edition is a single malt from Skye. The Islay bottling comes from the southern part of the island. The Speyside version is sourced from a well-known family distillery. The Lowland malt is triple distilled.

Smokehead: A "secret" single malt from Islay with a bold South Islay peat character.

Ardbeg 1999/2009 Chieftains 10 years old Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Islay Malt Whisky 70 cl 54,8%

Item no.: 22227865438-117

Distillery: ArdbegBottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers - Chieftains Limited Edition Vintage: 1999/2009 Age: 10 years Type: Single Islay Malt Whisky Cask number/type: #1065 Alc. strength: 54,8 % Number of bottles: 204 pcs. 70 cl.
1pcs.
348,50EUR
Benriach 1996/2009 Chieftains 12 Years Sherry Butt Finish Single Speyside Malt Whisky 43%

Item no.: 222556-636

Benriach 1996/2009 Chieftains 12 Years Sherry Butt Finish Single Speyside Malt Whisky 43%

Benriach 1996 is an elegant and fruitfully complex whisky from the renowned Benriach distillery in Speyside. This single malt was distilled in 1996, matured in first-fill casks, and then finished in a sherry butt before being bottled in 2009 by Chieftain’s Choice. The combination of classic Speyside style and sherry finish creates a whisky with both sweetness and depth.

In the glass, the whisky shows a warm, deep amber color. The aroma is inviting and complex with clear sherry influence: ripe dried fruits such as raisins, prunes, and figs meet sweet honey, vanilla, and caramel. At the same time, citrus notes and green apples emerge, creating a balance between freshness and richness. A touch of spice from the sherry cask, including cinnamon and light clove, adds extra depth to the aromatic experience.

The taste is rich and velvety with a pleasant sweetness from the Speyside malt, elegantly binding together fruity and sherry-driven nuances. Dried fruits continue on the palate accompanied by dark chocolate, caramel, and a light nutty character. The sherry finish contributes warm spices and subtle complexity, while the natural malt profile ensures the whisky remains soft and well-balanced.

The finish is long and rounded, with lingering notes of dried fruit, spices, and a gentle hint of oak. The combination of Speyside fruitiness and the depth of the sherry finish makes this Benriach a harmonious and satisfying whisky experience.

Benriach 1996/2009 Chieftains 12 Years Sherry Butt Finish is ideal for those seeking a Speyside whisky with elegance, fruity complexity, and a full sherry profile – perfect as an after-dinner dram or as part of a collection of quality whiskies.

Distillery: Benriach
Bottler: Chieftains
Vintage: Distilled: ??/12/1991 - Bottled: ??/10/2009
Age: 12 years
Type: Single Speyside Malt Whisky
Cask number/type: Sherry Butt Finish #90511 / 90512
Alcohol strength: 43%
Number of bottles: 1170
Un-chillfiltered
Natural Colour
Other:
70 cl.
Listen to our podcast:
1pcs.
201,00EUR
Caol Ila 1991/2009 Chieftains 18 Years Single Islay Malt Whisky 48%

Item no.: 222556-635

Caol Ila 1991/2009 Chieftains 18 Years Single Islay Malt Whisky 48%

Caol Ila 1991 is a classic, refined Islay whisky with a balance of smoke, sweetness, and maritime notes. Distilled in 1991 and matured for 18 years, it was bottled by Chieftain’s Choice at 48% ABV, offering a rich yet approachable tasting experience for both smoke lovers and those seeking a nuanced Islay profile.

In the glass, the whisky has a light golden color with a faint oily sheen. The nose opens with a distinct, pure Islay character: gentle tobacco smoke, sea salt, and seaweed combined with citrus, green apples, and a subtle sweet malt profile. The smoke is present but more elegant than aggressive, allowing room for fresh fruit notes and light spice.

On the palate, this Caol Ila delivers a soft yet complex experience with a fine balance between dry, mineral smoke and pleasant sweetness. Citrus and bright fruits such as pear and lemon are complemented by a touch of honey and vanilla, while the maritime character emerges in notes of salted licorice and light seaweed. The smoke is medium in intensity, well-integrated, and elegant rather than overwhelming.

The finish is long, clean, and persistent with fresh smoke, light salt, and a rounded fruity sweetness blending with hints of malt and spice. The overall impression is a classic Islay whisky with depth, balance, and maritime character, appreciated by both peat enthusiasts and those who seek complexity in a whisky’s profile.

This 18-year-old Caol Ila from Chieftain’s Choice is an excellent representative of the distillery’s ability to combine smoky power with finesse, making it perfect for collectors and whisky lovers who want a classic Islay experience with depth and elegance.

Distillery: Caol Ila
Bottler: Chieftains
Vintage: Distilled: ??/03/1991 - Bottled: ??/05/2009
Age: 18 years
Type: Single Islay Malt Whisky
Cask number/type: German Oak Finish #91821
Alcohol strength: 48%
Number of bottles: 288
Un-chillfiltered
Natural Colour
Other:
70 cl.
Listen to our podcast:
1pcs.
335,00EUR
Isle of Skye 12 Years Ian MacLeod Distillers Blended Scotch Whisky 40%

Item no.: 22227134-798

Isle of Skye 12 Years from Ian MacLeod Distillers is a well-balanced blended Scotch whisky with clear Highland character and a gentle touch of peat. Bottled at 40%, it offers complexity, elegance, and a maritime note.

This 12-year-old blend is part of the Isle of Skye range, created by Ian MacLeod Distillers with an unusually high proportion of malt whisky from both the islands and Speyside. The result is a whisky with depth, structure, and a distinct regional identity. It is matured for 12 years in oak casks, contributing to a rounded and integrated flavour profile.

Nose: Creamy vanilla, orange peel, coriander, honey cake, and a distant hint of heather smoke
Palate: Dried apricot, gooseberry, and mild spice with balanced sweetness
Finish: Long and smooth with peat smoke, lime, dark chocolate, and fresh mint
Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
Age: 12 years
ABV: 40%
Style: Highland-led blend with peated Island malts
Origin: Scotland
Bottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers

Isle of Skye 12 Years is an excellent choice for curious newcomers and seasoned whisky lovers seeking a blend with depth, elegance, and a touch of smoke.
1pcs.
37,50EUR
Isle of Skye 18 Years Ian MacLeod Distillers Blended Scotch Whisky 40%

Item no.: 22227134-799

Isle of Skye 18 Years Ian MacLeod Distillers Blended Scotch Whisky 40%

Isle of Skye 18 Years from Ian MacLeod Distillers is a matured and coastal-inspired blended Scotch whisky, bottled at 40%. It offers a refined balance of sweetness, spice, and gentle peat, shaped by 18 years of oak maturation.

Although often mistaken for a single malt, Isle of Skye 18 Years is a blended Scotch whisky composed of aged malt and grain whiskies. The blend includes peated Island malts alongside Highland and Speyside components, creating a layered and harmonious profile with maritime character.

Nose: Gooseberry and cinnamon on a sea breeze, with hints of lime, chili, and black pepper
Palate: Soft peat smoke opens to citrus zest, fruitcake, and smooth toffee
Finish: Lingering and mellow with fading smoke, rounded malt, and a touch of dark chocolate
Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
Age: 18 years
ABV: 40%
Style: Highland-led blend with peated Island influence
Origin: Scotland
Bottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers

Isle of Skye 18 Years is a great choice for experienced whisky lovers seeking depth without overpowering smoke, and for collectors who appreciate age-stated blends with regional character.
1pcs.
87,00EUR
Macleods Highland 8 Years Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Highland Malt Whisky 40%

Item no.: 22227134-757

Macleod’s Highland 8 Years Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Highland Malt Whisky 40%

Macleod’s Highland is a classic and well-balanced whisky from Ian MacLeod Distillers, bottled at 40%. It represents the broad style of the Highland region with notes of malt, fruit, spice, and a touch of smoke—a full-bodied and approachable dram with character.

The whisky is part of the MacLeod’s Regional Malts series, where each edition reflects the flavour profile of its region. The Highland bottling combines sweetness and complexity with a gentle dryness and a hint of cask influence. The origin is not specified, but the style points toward traditional Highland distilleries such as Dalmore, Glen Garioch, or Ben Nevis.

Nose: Malt, apple, vanilla, and light spice with a touch of smoke
Palate: Full and balanced with honey, grain, spice, and soft fruit
Finish: Medium with malt, oak, and a lightly dry finish
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Series: MacLeod’s Regional Malts – Highland
Age: 8 years
ABV: 40%
Origin: Not specified, but stylistically from the Highland region
Bottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers

Tune in to our podcast to learn more about the diversity of Highland whisky and MacLeod’s interpretation of the region’s character.
1pcs.
33,50EUR
Macleods Island 8 year old Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Island Malt Whisky 40%

Item no.: 22227865438-134

Macleod’s Island 8 Year Old Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Island Malt Whisky 40%

MacLeod’s Island Single Malt, selected by Malt Master John Glass, is part of the MacLeod’s Regional Malts series—a bold and sea-inspired whisky from Ian MacLeod Distillers, bottled at 40%. It captures the maritime style of Scotland’s west coast islands with pronounced smoke, salt, and coastal character.

This single malt is one of several in Ian MacLeod’s Regional Malts range, where each bottling reflects the flavour profile of its region. The Island edition is especially marked by sea air, peat, and minerality—a style often associated with distilleries like Talisker or Highland Park, though the exact origin is not disclosed.

Nose: Dry and smoky with peat, sea salt, iodine, and leather. Subtle notes of sherry and dried fruit
Palate: Sweet malt balanced by peat smoke, salted butter, and oak
Finish: Medium length with earthy smoke, spice, and a hint of nuttiness
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Series: MacLeod’s Regional Malts – Island
Age: 8 years
ABV: 40%
Origin: Not specified, but stylistically from islands such as Skye, Mull, or Orkney
Bottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers

Listen to our podcast for more.
1pcs.
33,50EUR
Macleods Islay 8 year old Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Islay Malt Whisky 40%

Item no.: 2222438-135

Macleod’s Islay Single Malt is a bold and smoky whisky from Ian MacLeod Distillers, bottled at 40%. It captures the classic Islay style with pronounced peat, iodine, sea salt, and a rugged coastal edge.

This whisky is part of the MacLeod’s Regional Malts series, where each edition reflects the flavour profile of its region. The Islay bottling is especially rich in smoke and maritime depth, reminiscent of distilleries like Lagavulin, Laphroaig, or Ardbeg—though the exact origin is undisclosed.

Nose: Intense peat smoke, iodine, leather, and sea salt. Underlying notes of malt and spice
Palate: Smoky and balanced with salt, roasted malt, and a touch of liquorice
Finish: Medium length with sooty smoke, spice, and a light medicinal note
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Series: MacLeod’s Regional Malts – Islay
ABV: 40%
Age: Not stated, but typically 8 years
Origin: Not specified, but stylistically from southern Islay
Bottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers

Tune in to our podcast to learn more about the Islay style and MacLeod’s secret malt.
1pcs.
33,50EUR
Macleods Lowland 8 year old Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Lowland Malt Whisky 40%

Item no.: 2222438-136

Macleod’s Lowland 8 Years Single Malt is a refined and delicate whisky from Ian MacLeod Distillers, bottled at 40%. It embodies the classic Lowland style with soft floral notes, gentle fruit, and a clean, rounded character—ideal for those who appreciate a lighter dram.

This whisky is part of the MacLeod’s Regional Malts series, where each edition reflects the flavour profile of its region. The Lowland bottling is distinguished by its triple distillation, which lends a silky texture and subtle elegance. While the exact origin is not disclosed, the style echoes traditional Lowland distilleries like Auchentoshan or Glenkinchie.

Nose: Light and floral with hints of green apple, citrus, vanilla, and fresh barley
Palate: Smooth and rounded with notes of pear, honey, grain, and a touch of oak
Finish: Short to medium with a clean, lightly spiced finish
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Series: MacLeod’s Regional Malts – Lowland
Age: 8 years
ABV: 40%
Origin: Not specified, but stylistically from the Lowland region
Bottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers

Tune in to our podcast to explore the finesse of Lowland whisky and MacLeod’s interpretation of the region.
1pcs.
33,50EUR
Macleods Speyside 8 Years Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Speyside Malt Whisky 40%

Item no.: 22227134-756

Macleod’s Speyside 8 Years Ian MacLeod Distillers Single Speyside Malt Whisky 40%

Macleod’s Speyside is a classic and fruity whisky from Ian MacLeod Distillers, bottled at 40%. It reflects the soft and elegant style that the Speyside region is known for—with notes of ripe fruit, vanilla, and gentle spice.

This whisky is part of the MacLeod’s Regional Malts series, where each edition captures the flavour profile of its region. The Speyside bottling is typically rounded and approachable, with balanced sweetness and a touch of cask influence. The origin is not disclosed, but the style points toward family-owned distilleries in the heart of Speyside, such as Benrinnes or Glenrothes.

Nose: Fruity and soft with notes of apple, pear, vanilla, and a hint of citrus
Palate: Rounded and sweet with malt, honey, spice, and light oak
Finish: Medium length with fruit, vanilla, and a mild spicy touch
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Series: MacLeod’s Regional Malts – Speyside
Age: 8 years
ABV: 40%
Origin: Not specified, but stylistically from the Speyside region
Bottler: Ian MacLeod Distillers

Tune in to our podcast to explore the finesse of Speyside whisky and MacLeod’s interpretation of the region’s character.
1pcs.
33,50EUR
Rosebank 1990/2011 Chieftains 20 Years Single Lowland Malt Whisky 55.7%

Item no.: 222556-634

Rosebank 1990/2011 Chieftains 20 Years Single Lowland Malt Whisky 55.7%

Rosebank 1990/2011 Chieftains 20 Years Single Lowland Malt Whisky 55.7% is a rare and elegant whisky from the iconic but now closed Rosebank distillery in the Lowlands. Distilled in 1990 and matured for 20 years, this single malt is bottled at cask strength, offering an intense and complex experience with the classic Rosebank character at its core.

In the glass, the whisky shows a clear golden amber color. The aroma is aromatic and inviting with notes of honey, ripe fruits, melon, and baked berries, complemented by subtle floral tones and a lightly spiced background of cinnamon and roasted nuts. With some time in the glass, softer floral nuances emerge clearly, creating an elegant aromatic experience.

The taste is full-bodied, warm, and oily with a pleasant sweetness, where honey, caramel, and vanilla meet the ripeness of the fruits. Gentle spices from the cask, such as cinnamon and cloves, balance the sweetness and add depth to the mouthfeel. A few drops of water enhance the complexity and bring both fruit and spice further into focus.

The finish is long, refined, and persistent with notes of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and light oak, leaving an elegant, dry, and harmonious conclusion.

This 20-year-old Rosebank is a perfect representative of the Lowlands style, with a focus on finesse, floral and fruity nuances, and historical weight. It appeals to collectors and whisky enthusiasts who appreciate rare, complex, and classic single malts.

Distillery: Rosebank
Bottler: Chieftains
Vintage: Distilled: ??/12/1990 - Bottled: ??/09/2011
Age: 20 years
Type: Single Lowland Malt Whisky
Cask number/type: Butt #3616
Alcohol strength: 55.7%
Number of bottles: 619
Un-chillfiltered
Natural Colour
Other:
70 cl.
Listen to our podcast:
1pcs.
469,00EUR
SmokeHead Single Malt Islay Whisky 70 cl 43%

Item no.: 22227865367-0

Distillery: Smokehead
Bottler: Ian MacLeod
Age: NA
Type: Single Islay Malt Whisky
Alc. strength: 43 %
Un-chillfiltered
Natural Colour
70 cl.
Other: Heavily Peated
1pcs.
65,50EUR
St Magdalene Linlithgow 1982/2009 Chieftains 26 Years Single Lowland Malt Whisky 55%

Item no.: 222556-633

St Magdalene Linlithgow 1982/2009 Chieftains 26 Years Single Lowland Malt Whisky 55%

St Magdalene 1982 Whisky is a rare and elegant whisky from the now closed St Magdalene distillery in the Lowlands. Distilled in 1982 and matured for 26 years, this single malt is bottled at cask strength with 55% alcohol and retains its natural color, offering an intense and complex tasting experience.

In the glass, the whisky appears golden with deep amber tones. The aroma is refined and floral with subtle notes of ripe fruits, citrus, and light herbs, combined with hints of leather and a gentle malt character. The taste is full-bodied and oily with an elegant balance of flowers, dried fruit, citrus, and dark chocolate. Spices and herbs emerge discreetly, adding depth and complexity, while the natural strength ensures a warm and lasting sensation on the palate.

The finish is long, refined, and persistent with nuances of fruit, spice, and floral tones, delivering a classic Lowland experience with timeless elegance. This 26-year-old St Magdalene appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who value rare and complex whiskies from closed distilleries, where every sip rewards patience and attention.

Distillery: St Magdalene - Linlithgow
Bottler: Chieftains
Vintage: Distilled: ??/10/1982 - Bottled: ??/05/2009
Age: 26 years
Type: Single Lowland Malt Whisky
Cask number/type: Butt #2219
Alcohol strength: 55%
Number of bottles: 348
Un-chillfiltered
Natural Colour
Other:
70 cl.
Listen to our podcast:
1pcs.
670,00EUR