i don't think it was the peat smoke exclusively that turned me off laphroaig; it seemed it was the fact that there was seemingly nothing besides/beyond the peat smoke. just strong alcohol. it was their 10 year/cheapest stuff....maybe the 15 year or older would be different?
i'll give your recommendation a try.
I'm not a big fan of Islay malts, largely due to the Laphroig 10. The 15-yo is worlds better. Smoother, less obnoxious with the smoke and the peat. Still not my preference, but definitely a big improvement over the 10.