The Deacon 700ml

The Deacon is a smoky blended Scotch whisky made with single malts from Islay and Speyside, bottled at 40% ABV. It was launched in 2023 by Sovereign Brands, its first whisky, and comes in an embossed copper-coloured bottle.

Buy The Deacon Online in New Zealand

The blend is built around two kinds of smoke. Peated Islay malts bring the tangy, coastal peat, while lighter mainland malts from Speyside add a softer, bonfire-style smokiness and malty sweetness. Grain whisky then rounds the mix out, keeping it easy to drink. The name comes from an old Scots word for someone who has mastered their trade, and the round bottle shape is a nod to the copper pot stills that make malt whisky. It sits between a gentle everyday blend and a full Islay single malt. If smoky Scotch interests you but straight Islay malts feel like a big jump, this is an easy, affordable place to start. Regular peat drinkers may find it a handy, sociable pour for mixing, while fans of smooth unpeated blends will notice the smoke straight away. It also stands out on a home bar shelf thanks to the striking bottle.

Pour it neat in a tumbler, with a splash of water, or over a large ice cube. It also makes a smoky highball with soda water or ginger ale and plenty of ice. Serve it with barbecued meat, smoked fish or a sharp aged cheddar.