Laphroaig 10yo Cask Strength Batch 011...

Laphroaig 10yo Cask Strength Batch 011 (58.6%): My absolutely favorite yearly release...  Although here in California we are following the Laphroaig Cask Strength batch releases a little behind compared to other countries and maybe even to other states every spring I still get pretty excited about it. I am well aware that Batch 012 is already out but the most current one I had the chance to purchase this spring was Batch 011. Last night after I realized that I am running low on my last bottle of Batch 010, which I liked a lot by the way, I thought it would be a good idea to pop open this guy today.

Color: Tad darker than Batch 010. Medium amber, orange blossom honey color with a ring of tiny teardrops all around the glass not so eager to convert themselves into legs.

Nose: Freshly laid tarmac, dry soot and bonfire on the beach still smoking the morning after. Sweet dry malt, burnt rosemary sprigs and cold ocean spray. Plastic band aid strips and linden tea. A few drops of water work great... I think it is safe to say that it has more sherry influence than the previous batches: Moldy basement, prunes and dried black currants. Granny Smith apple slices, pebbles on the beach and damp sea towels.

Palate: Peat smoke in your face... Sea salt, sage and lemon zest. Green peppercorns, oak and chili oil. Like on the nose adding water opens it up nicely: Grilled green banana peppers, juniper berries and black olives. Sage and vanilla. Cigar ash and spent charcoal.

Finish: Mouth numbing... Very long with red pepper flakes, oak and savory scones. Tonic water and saltwater.

Overall: Right when I was about to mourn about finishing my very last bottle of Batch 010 Batch 011 saved the day. Pretty good release... It is dry, bitter and herbal and it's less oaky and sweet compared to the earlier batches. Now it's time to get at least one more bottle to keep when I still have the chance to do so.

Price: $70

88/100