Continuing my Laphroaig series is a sample of their 10-year sherry oak that was generously provided by @ctbeck11 The nose starts with a mix of tangy smoked short ribs, cherries jubilee and moderate campfire smoke then dark chocolate mocha, light diesel fumes, mild ocean brine and toasted hazelnuts followed by bacon wrapped dates, caramelized pears and blood orange sorbet that transitions to light baking spices and freshly opened can of tennis balls with medium ethanol burn. The taste is a medium mouthfeel starting with creamy red berries before a mild spice that quickly fades to tangy smoked short ribs, strawberry shortcake and moderate campfire smoke then dark chocolate mocha, burnt rubber, sun soaked asphalt, mild ocean brine and toasted hazelnuts followed by bacon wrapped dates, caramelized pears and blood orange sorbet that transitions to light baking spices and freshly opened can of tennis balls with medium ethanol burn. The finish is long, starting with a mix of dark chocolate covered candied bacon, grilled figs and sautéed strawberries that fades to moderate campfire, asphalt, light ocean brine and freshly opened can of tennis balls that lingers for minutes. This is a wonderful smoky and sweet dram that the peat and sherry work perfectly together to create this balance of rich smoked meats along with creamy citrus, berries and mild earthy notes that lingers long after each sip. At a price of around $90, I’d happily buy one of these on sight next time I see one and think this is an absolute stunner of a dram by Laphroaig that thankfully isn't outrageously priced these days. Ratings for the series: 10-year cask strength batch 11- 3.75 10-year sherry oak- 4.0