A close to the weekend that was rushed and busy. A pour to slow time is much needed. Laphroaig is one that has the ability to put time on pause. There’s a medicinal, antiseptic opening. A bit of earthy peat or coal tar, but ever so slight, non-Laphroaig-like. Vanilla extract, nutmeg, custard with a gentle briny and maritime infusion. The palate becomes tarry and remains constant and has white pepper weaving throughout. Baking spices also come alive: cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Burnt toast, smoked cherries. The body is medium weight and slightly oily. Water draws the fruity cherry sweetness forward and provides a balance and improves the experience. The palate remains ashy and tarry. Dark roasted coffee and Orange rinds with spicy oak that lingers for an eternity. This is a slow sipper for those who enjoy a earthy, peaty, tarry sweetness. Rich in depth and warming. Water is key here and the enriches the whisky. [87/100][Tasted: 6/3/18]