Customer Reviews (73 Total)
The State of Penzance
May 23, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I have no idea what today's Penzance is like and with the fact that it is unobtainable, I may never know. I was fortunate enough to recently discover that I had cellared a tin in 1999 (and forgot about it). Rather than sell it for an obscene amount... Read More
online, I opened the tin and smoked it during a recent fly fishing trip. I'm down to my last bowl or 2, and that will be it. Hopefully, if it ever returns, it will be the same. It is a heavenly smoke if sipped gently to appreciate all the nuance. I'm sorry there are those who find it acceptable to hoard and sell for profit. I'm so glad I chose to enjoy what I had. Read Less
Rate the Tobacco DAMMIT!
November 03, 2016
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I happened to buy some without realizing what I had bought and it was one of the best tasting tobaccos I've ever had.
I understand the annoyance about it's rarity (I haven't had or seen any in six years)but if found, is worth a try!
Truly Amazing Smoking Experience
August 16, 2017
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
The hype is sky-high but it's for a good reason. It is other-worldly, and it makes you wonder just what is in there! Although some other blends do come in the same ballpark, they never come very close to the real thing. This is like nothing you'll ev... Read More
er smoke, and you'll likely never smoke it unless...nope..just move on, there are lots of other good blends out there (just none exactly like this one). I've heard about pipers paying immense amounts of money for just tiny amounts of this blend, and personally I find it a bit ridiculous. Any company in their right mind would make more, export and triple the price, and make a killing. On that note, it seems that maybe this rather small company has run-out of whatever they need to make Penzance; that may explain its disappearance. If it ever comes back, I highly doubt it'll be exactly the same as the originals. The taste is obviously not due to some secret sauce, but rather a mixture of amazing tobaccos. Although everyone is entitled to an opinion, the reviews like the ones titled "Overrated!", and especially the one titled "Penzac" with 1.5 stars—likely are from complete amateurs or non-pipers. Maybe they're trying (in vain) to keep the hype down, or they broke into Daddy's stash one day after running out of shisha or hash and were disappointed, or got ripped-off on eBay. I do wonder how many jerks there are hoarding this stuff in their stashes who don't fully appreciate its beauty and are letting it rot & wither away. My cynicism aside, I was over-the-moon with happiness to have been able to get some—enough to really enjoy it too—but it'll never be enough! Maybe one day another blender will come up with something which is comparable to Penzance, but nothing comes close to the 2010 batch I had—according to 1,000 or more pipers' opinions who say the same. I doubt that many folks' opinions could be wrong. All in all, it's a chimera and an enigma. Also, as I said previously, it's worth looking elsewhere to try other blends to enjoy, as there are hundreds of them and many are wonderful. Read Less
Unobtainium
October 23, 2018
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
I have given up on this and, in fact, all Esoterica products. They are NEVER available ANYWHERE except on ebay where they are sold for prices that can only be described as obscene. Thanks, but no thanks. I will stay with my C & D Pirate Kake whic... Read More
h makes me perfectly happy. Read Less
Thank you for "in stock" alerts
January 08, 2016
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Just hope I can get one in my shopping cart before the supplies run out again.
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
连到货通知都接不到,是什么道理。难道这也有歧视吗?
One of a Kind
May 02, 2021
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Believe it or not, this used to be sold in bulk. I purchased a pound of it in 2013 from my tobacconist and just finished my last bowl. Penzance is/was truly a unique mixture. The VA used was like no other I’ve had; very mellow and incredibly sweet w... Read More
ithout any of the bite/tingle typically experienced with high-sugar content leaf. The lingering aftertaste was pleasant and sweet... sugary sweet, and similar to sucking on a hard candy. The flakes crumbled so easily that if you tried to pick one up it would fall apart. C&D does flakes much the same way in which they seem so fermented they barely stay together and just disintegrate when handling. The Latakia is minimal and squarely in a support role. It's nothing so heavy as say, SOTE. It’s a creamy and mildly fired Latakia. The Orientals are what I can’t quite figure... like the VA, they're fermented and smooth; lacking any spice and don't possess the floral and herbal qualities we expect. I suspect this may be a varietal that’s since become extremely rare or even extinct. Perhaps that's why this isn't produced at large batches any longer. This company could make so much money of they increased their capacity, and I think they know it. That's why I believe this is more a varietal issue, and we know that any change in leaf, particularly in the Orientals or VA, would make this an over-priced run of the mill English. I haven't had any manufactured post 2012, so I can't comment on the newer versions. I will say though, Star of the East Flake has many of the same qualities as Penzance. In my opinion, SOTE Flake is better than Penzance. Quite a statement, I know, but smoked side by side... they're very, very similar. Penzance isn't a powerhouse in strength as the nicotine is 1.5 - 2 out of 5. The flavor is full and the body is medium. Read Less
我抽过最美妙的拉草
September 02, 2018
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
基草的甘甜是经过长期的发酵,燃烧的非常好留下灰比其他拉草要白。其中的拉塔基尼亚虽然没起主导作用,也使得维吉尼亚是主旋律,让既爱抽V的和L的人都能接受。我认为它既有V的甘甜又有L的醇厚,是一款无以替代的草。
A magical smoke in the tradition of British tobacco.
November 01, 2017
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Think about a time when tobacco was simple, Virginia, Turkish, Orientals and Latakia. Perfectly proportioned, blended and pressed into easy to crumble (very easy) thick flakes in the traditional British way, slowly and loosely.
The taste and aroma ... Read More
of vintage book shops, leather, mild spice, and a smokey comforting finish washes across the palette.
J.F Germain's truly are the masters of rare, time consuming and perfect blends. If you can get this for cost, do so immediately here at SP. Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
E家 彭赞芝
生草:果香、烟熏、铁腥味。
点火后:烟熏、铁腥、坚果、果香、木香、花香、谷物,新鲜水果、酒韵、朽木、烤谷物、胭脂香。
口腔里面能感受到:柠檬、柑橘的果酸和果甜、蜜甜,口腔里面会有残留一定的烟熏味儿。
烟气方面:烟熏明显,烟熏感强烈,烟气风味明显、轻柔,燃烧稳定。刚开始点火的时候,需要多几次补火。
总的来说,一抖下来体验感还是很棒的,是一款好草。要提醒大家的是,打开后的存放方式尽量选密封良好的盒子,摆放整齐,减少破碎。风味才能“最”纯正。这是一款每位每一位抖客都想要尝试的一款斗草。... Read More
当然,他也确实是实至名归。建议斗深的兄弟,如果灰过于的厚,可以选择倾倒一些灰,风味会更好。还要草不要装太实了~ Read Less
Best English Period
November 15, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Words cannot describe how good this tobacco is. It is utter perfection as far as englishes go, strong yet mellow, the flavors blend perfectly, the latakia isn't too strong or weak. It is simply the best English blend available... Except it never is a... Read More
vailable. I recommend getting on the waitlist que. It may take years, but it is well worth the wait. Otherwise you may have to buy it from a collector for MUCH MORE than retail price. Read Less
Order more
October 19, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
It's frustrating to be informed that something is in stock i.e. Balkan Sobranie and now Penzance to log in and get a whammy Sold Out - Out of Stock. Maybe Smoking Pipes should order a real big amount that would stay in stock for at least a month, kn... Read More
owing it sells like hot Cornish pasties.
Andrew Read Less
Sold out
October 16, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I received an email notification, I go in minutes later to place the order and it is already sold out. How disappointing.
for the people who can't use a rating system properly...
October 16, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
This is to review the PRODUCT, not the service provided. On that note: Penzance is very unique blend that's worth picking up when you can find it. it always reminds me of BBQ when i smell the tin note.
*Can you guys please delete the absurd "re... Read More
views" that have been posted on this day. whining like children should not ruin a product's rating.. Read Less
Food of the gods
May 07, 2021
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Not going to bore you with a bunch of tobacconist words !!but the man who came up with this blend was blessed by God he truly created something special ,enough said if you could get your hands on this and I was blessed by God by being able to acquire... Read More
some you’ll never be disappointed !!! Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Grrrate!
Best non-aromatic I've ever had
July 02, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
I waited for two years to get my hands on some of this stuff and finally did a few weeks ago. Believe the hype. This stuff is really, really good. It's a shame it's so hard to get.
I don't see what all the fuss is about.
November 26, 2018
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
This is not a bad blend by any means. It is a solid smooth English. However I found the flavor profile to be relatively standard. The tin note was smoky and sweet as well as the smoke with just enough bite to remind you that it is an English without ... Read More
being overpowering. A good blend but as with the standard squadron leader I don't think it's worth the attention it receives. Read Less
So.....PLEASE READ... 4.5 Stars for the YEAR 1991
June 03, 2018
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
The hype “ What’s it all about Alfie “! Earlier in the day I had a bowl of Penzance Circa 2014 and what I smoked was just OKAY! Took 3 re-lights and light tamps, but once lit, stayed lit. It burned extremely slow with allot of cool woodsy smoke and s... Read More
ome floral notes with nothing much more to say about this super hyped blend. Just now finished a bowl of Penzance Circa 1991....WOW....the Penzance I truly remembered. The 1991 smoked outstanding after 2 lights and light tamping, stayed lit to the end. The smoke was extremely woodsy from what must be a higher grade Latakia used back then. You were able to pick up some sweetness in the background from the Virginia and the spice was on the spot from the Orientals in the 1991 blend. For both smokes I used the same pipe....a LaStrada Pot style nosewarmer with a wide chamber. My conclusion....the 2014 Penzance I would rate @ 2.5 Stars and the 1991 Penzance a true 4.5 Star blend. Was it the aging that made ALL the difference or in time has the quality of tobacco’s used after the year 2000 changed that drastically?!?!?!
I must add I’ve smoked Penzance 2001-2005 & 2008-2014....all were just what I would consider an okay smoke. Nothing I would truly go back to! Read Less
Sold out
October 16, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Caleb, I would love to rate the tobacco, but for me it tastes like a zero because that is what I got.
Out of touch with the customer
October 16, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Why do you send alerts when it is out of stock? From the other reviews I can't imagine why you intentionally frustrate your customers. Perhaps it is because you don't like us?
Email alert is a joke!
October 16, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
What's the point in emailing me alerts if you do not have it in Stock? If you send me an alert saying it's in then it better be in. It's only been a few minutes since i got the email. Now, have some integrity and make this right, no more LIES smok... Read More
ing pipes! As it is lately you've lost my business and you're not working to earn it back by lying! Read Less
Shenanigans!
July 31, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Just got my one time notification, looks I have been beaten by the bots! My guess is tomorrow most of it will be on eBay at 40-80$ an oz
Penzance Sold Out in 30 Seconds
July 31, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Responded in less than 30 seconds of 8 oz Penzance in stock email notification only to find item out of stock.
I was actually sitting in front of my computer and immediately responded.
Sounds a little fishy to me it would all sell out so fast, like... Read More
maybe other "customers" had a notification first............. Read Less
My guess on this tobacco
July 31, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
There must be a better way to allocate Penzance. I'll bet its the same people who are able to respond within 30 seconds of the email alert. Rest of us have to work.
More and more Smoking Pipes is demonstrating to me that it has lost its touch with... Read More
customer service.
A better approach might be stack ranking those that consistently sign up for alerts only to be disappointed by sold out, giving the rest of us a chance to purchase. Lots of hoarders out there.
Oh yeah-its good tobacco however there are many other nice tobacco's out there. Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
13年的彭赞之,柔顺无比,醇香浓郁,几乎可以直接过肺,值得拥有
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
有幸抢到一个大包L老饼。
The infamous and elusive legend
July 12, 2021
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
When I think of Penzance, I think in very much the same vein as I do Balkan Sobranie. They're both amazing tobaccos in their own right. And, if you just gotta have them in your cellar, then more power to you. But, there are tobaccos out there that ar... Read More
e very, very close in smoking quality and that are much, much easier to obtain. For instance, I absolutely feel that something like a Quiet Nights by G.L. Pease comes quite close to Penzance. They do, however, have their differences, of course. G.L. Pease seems to have a slightly bolder and more separated flavor profile, while Penzance's flavors are a bit more subdued, yet melded together a bit more. The overall flavors and smoking mechanics are quite similar, however, with the exception of a slight bergamot and heather flavor that comes through on the back end of the smoke, throughout the first quarter to one third of a bowl of Penzance, but, after that, the two smoke nearly identically, in my experience. Hope anyone who's having trouble obtaining this blend and is curious as to whether it's actually worth the hassle, finds this review helpful. Read Less
Has been not available
June 23, 2020
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Have never seen this website have goods.
Capturing a Unicorn
December 24, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Was able to get an 8 oz bag after about 4 years of looking. The hype is true. The tobacco is wonderfully smoky and smooth. Definitely one of the best our there and worth the hype. If you have had the pleasure of smoking Germain’s version of The Balka... Read More
n Sobranie you will immediately recognize the flavor as soon as flame meets tobacco. The quality and varieties of tobaccos that Germain uses for their Esoterica blends produce flavors that can be tasted nowhere else. Read Less
The golden unicorn of tobacco
October 06, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
It’s a shame this rich , mellow and creamy fine molted English flake is out of stock all the time pretty much everywhere. I’ve only ever been able to find it from the local B&M. It’s the perfect musty Latakia with the finest sweet Virgina. It’s t... Read More
ruly the best smoke I’ve ever had. Burns all the way down to a fine white ash without a relight. A smooth ,mellow , smoky and creamy mouth feel. Don’t pass it up if you get a chance. Read Less
Balkan Haters Need Not Apply!
February 21, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
First of all, if you don't like Balkan blends, don't waste your time searching for Penzance. And don't hoard it so the rest of us who do like it can't buy it.
I have never been able to purchase Penzance on SP, but resorted to purchasing it on the se... Read More
condary market.
There is something about this tobacco that really shines, and I think that it is called Balance. The flavors just meld. There is a tangy, fermented (probably from the Esoterica long aging process, part of why there is so little available at any given time) subtle nuanced flavor in this tobacco that I have not tasted anywhere else. GL Pease Quiet Nights comes close, but just does not quite get there. Quiet Nights just about reaches for that greatness, but gets muddled at the very end.
Penzance can get a little sour in some spots, which is why I can't give it a completely top rating. But it is amazing. No hype. This Balkan lover loves it. Read Less
Find a treasure map...
January 16, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
So, once every hundred years or so, when the moons rays bounce off of a crystal clear lake just right, you get a hold of this mythical creature. Jokes aside, the blend is IMO the best Balkan English out there. Aged is even better.
Find a treasure map...
January 16, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
So, once every hundred years or so, when the moons rays bounce off of a crystal clear lake just right, you get a hold of this mythical creature. Jokes aside, the blend is IMO the best Balkan English out there. Aged is even better.
Pearls before swine
January 14, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
It’s one of the all-time greats and I think people who give it bad reviews are just bitter that it’s so hard to purchase. Yes it’s ridiculous that there is a waiting list and it’s nearly impossible to get. But when you do get your hands on it, it is ... Read More
just spectacular tobacco. Read Less
Penzance
December 04, 2018
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
The best tobacco I have ever smoked, wish it wasn’t so hard to get !!!
Apologies
November 03, 2018
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
I previously wrote a review that made it sound like the folks that own the esoterica brand were business morons for not finding some way to satisfy the strong demand for their products. Having had years now to consider this lack of kindness, I would... Read More
like to apologize to all of the worlds business morons for lumping the owners of esoterica in with you... please forgive me. Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
I got my hands on this first in early 2010 and I just didn’t get along with it. It had a very distinct quality to it that I can only describe as diesel fuel. It wasn’t an aversion to Latakia as I loved and smoke a number of f heavy Lat blends in thos... Read More
e days. Anyway, I took it as a loss and traded it off. Fast forward two years and here I am, really enjoying this stuff. This is a nice, full bodied blend very similar to Smokers Haven Krumble Kake and both are made by Germain so there ya go. Great, complex and smooth as velvet. I can think of several blends I would reach for before this but it is absolutely worthy of a four star rating. If you can find the stuff give er a whirl, ya might like it but try not to harbor any unrealistic expectations of it, it’s just a very nice, expertly blended crumble cake. The nicotine is in about the mild range. Great all day smoke and I tend to enjoy it while reading a good book. Be sure to give it a good half an hour of dry time, gravity fill your pipe and enjoy! Read Less
Good, But Hard To Get
October 21, 2017
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
This English is really good. There’s a lot of hype with this tobacco and is hard to find. Quality always seems top notch, it’s just super hard to find. Not sure it’s worth the price on the second hand market, but I keep coming back to it. The all... Read More
ure and rarity makes it a special time smoke for me. Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I just purchased two tins of Penzac this week and it's the first time I've tried it and I don't know what all the hype is about this tobacco there's nothing special or taste about this tobacco seriously Dunhill my mixture is much better anybody that... Read More
buys this on eBay has a screw loose but I didn't buy it on eBay I found a supplier on the Internet and it took me a long time to find it but anyways it wasn't a waste of money very weak tobacco I must say Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Very good
My Top favorite!
October 18, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
After a 25 yr. hiatus, I started smoking a pipe again. In the old days I fell in love with Penzance. It was a LOT easier o get in those days. Again, it's still my favorite. It is a hell of a lot harder to get now.
I got lucky last time. In between ... Read More
classes I checked my email and saw the notice. I called immediately and was able to get a bag. The customer service guy told me that they had received a small shipment. He also told me that they expected to run out in 1/2 hour. Good timing; I got very lucky. Nobody else has it at all. Read Less
My Top favorite!
October 18, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Sorry about the repeat. I can't delete this copy. So, ditto.
Brilliant Tobacco
October 16, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Why some are giving bad reviews based on their inability to buy it, I'll never understand. It's a tobacco worthy of your time to seek it out. I get an email and respond immediately and always get it. Win some, lose others.
That said, it's a brilliant... Read More
tobacco and is hard to find for a reason. When it comes to the finest, in any product, it's supposed to be hard to find. It's a silky smooth flavorful mottled flake that ages like a very fine Bordeaux. If I was comparing to wine, I'd say that Penzance is Chateaux Petrus. It's a worthy comparison, earthy, a wine like character. A hall of fame blend if ever there was one. Read Less
Esoterica developmentally disabled
August 01, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Update 10/14/16 I Have continued to look for something similarly satisfying and failed. But I am tired of "stalking" Esoterica, she has made it clear that she does not want my attentions... no means NO... Umm...Right?................................... Read More
..
For the business challenged - in business you keep score with money... Esoterica has little to none of yours, and way less of mine than I was willing to part with.
08/01/15 Come on guys, the problem is the lack of business sense of esoterica. They have a winning product and can never seem to be able to ramp up production. For those of you that are trying to make me feel better about it by saying it ain't that great... Thanks for trying but it will never work - some of us like it... A lot.
I have not seen one recommendation as an alternative - just assurances that this is one of many - thanx fer nothin.
Read Less
My second favorite tobacco
March 12, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Charming, quant and, full of rich flavor. I am a latakia lover (no burley for me) so this flake is a perfect second to my FAVORITE blend Balkan Saiseini.
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Overhyped like crazy but a decent smoke
Amazing
February 27, 2013
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
What is there to say, simply an amazing smoke and a must try for every pipe smoker out there.
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
I now can see what the fuss was all about.... what a yummy smoke
Excellent tobacco
June 02, 2012
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
A unique blend presented in a classy little tin. Tastes of brisket and smells like incense, it's hard not to like this stuff.
Super delicious, although over-hyped
May 29, 2012
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Yes, it's hard to come by. But it's almost as good as it's reputation promises. Dark, full-flavored, slightly sweet, though savory, this is certainly the best Germain has to offer in their Esoterica line.
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
현존하는 발칸 블렌드 중 최고의 연초입니다. 피워도 피워도 질리지 않습니다. 틴 노트는 첨가제가 적게 포함된 연초인만큼, 썩은사과향과 캐첩향이 납니다. 크럼블 케이크 모양을 잘 풀어해치고 피우면, 그야말로 천국이 저에게 다가옵니다.
부드럽고 달달한 향. 라타키아의 스모키함이 모든 연기를 감쌉니다. 입에서는 단맛이 폭발하며 마치 감귤같은 오리엔탈의 청량함이 폭발합니다. 네 폭발합니다. 그야말로 입안에서 모든 향들이 어우러져 폭발합니다. 그 하나... Read More
도 튀지 않고 어울리며 모든 향이 입과 코에서 터집니다. PG첨가가 많지 않아 연무가 강하지 않습니다. 그럼에도 불구하고 풍미가 계속해서 폭발한다고 느껴집니다.
피워도 피워도 질리지 않습니다. 단점이 하나 있는데 향이 좋아 기승전결이 없이 전전전전 후 뚝 끊깁니다.
지금까지 존재하는 모든 연초 중 최고의 연초라고 자신있게 추천할 수 있습니다. 구하기 어렵습니다. 하지만 어려움을 견딜만한 최고의 연초라고 자신있게 말할 수 있습니다. Read Less
Nice Tobacco
May 26, 2023
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
This is one of my favorite tobaccos. I still have 50 kilograms in stock. Slowly taste
How to find but worth it.
January 15, 2023
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I found an 8 ounce jar of this in the back of one of my storage cabinets bought it in 2008. The lid on the container was bulging I know it’s been in there a long time and once I opened it and smelled it I was like holy smokes! So I loaded it up in a ... Read More
pipe and tried it and it was marvelous definitely one of the best Packers I’ve ever had. I am not really a lot of Chi lover but this one seem to mellow out over the years to make it absolutely incredible. just one of those just gets better with age. Not gonna try and find anymore probably wouldn’t be able to do it anyway so I am going to enjoy what I have and that’s that. Read Less
Nice Tobacco
November 30, 2022
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
This is one of my favorite tobaccos. I still have 20 kilograms in stock. Slowly taste
Great Ingredients in An Over-Engineered Mess
November 27, 2022
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
This tobacco is not worth the fuss. High Quality leaf, yes... but the end product is like 100 others, and worse than many. It is a confused "everything and the kitchen sink" mixture that doesn't deliver a consistent experience throughout ... Read More
the bowl, from bowl to bowl, or tin to tin. One of the finest examples of small-batch production challenges doubled by an overblown reputation.
It doesn't live up to the hype, unless one is trying to convince oneself it does to justify the obscene amount he probably spent on it.
Nothing in the world wrong with it, but it doesn't deliver a single thing that you can't get elsewhere and for far less money. Read Less
Lightly Elevated Standard English
September 17, 2022
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Back when I first tried this stuff it was ok. I was smoking a lot of different english blends, so this one just sort of blended in with the rest. As I moved around to other types of blends and backed away from the lat/oriental forward stuff, I sort o... Read More
f forgot about Penzance. Then after a couple years I went back. It was way better than I remember. Softer, smoother, and sweeter than most of what I was smoking. There's a sort of smoky caramel thing going on. It's the typical refinement you can expect from Germain's, but there are just so many good blends in the category that you can get easily. Read Less
Good, but not equal the hype
November 28, 2021
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
I'll start with the good..it's typical of all Germain's tobacco. Aged, exceptional tobacco. But honestly, once you get past that Esoterica is a bunch of blends based on the original Smokers Haven original Sobranie match, then you realize if you've sm... Read More
oked any of the Smokers Haven Blends, you've had a better version of these. There are plenty of tobaccos that exceed the expectations for considerably less money and fuss. Now if you are one of those people that chases unicorns. Than this will scratch that itch since the tobacco is good. But I like nuances in my tobacco , and Penzance doesn't have alot of them. I have possessed 2000, 2016, and 2020. It's all very singular and reminiscing of a blown tractor trailer tire. It sings at the first half of the bowl. Then turns singular and flat for the second half. Smokers Haven Exotique is by far my favorite of all those blend and the fine ribbon helps with the burning characteristics of that blend. I've either traded or sold all of my Penzance, and will not be acquiring any more. Peacehaven is probably the only Esoterica worth chasing and I'm sitting on plenty of that. I realize I will be upsetting alot of passionate followers of this prized leaf. But it's a tobacco that does not deserve it's impossibly loyal following. Read Less
Balkan lovers delight
May 14, 2021
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
The smell out the bag/tin is pungent. The Smokey sour scent hits your nose immediately. As for the taste it’s a true Balkan. The high quality orientals and Latakia are up front. The Virginia’s provide a sweetness balancing it all out. The smoke is c... Read More
reamy and rich. It’s worthy of all the hype. Read Less
Lacking In Strength & Vitamin N... Very Wimpy
June 11, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Sampled from a 2008 vintage tin. The aroma is of a smoky Latakia presence combined with Oriental essence. I did not detect any flavoring from the sniff. I don't know but the majority of reviewers say it contains an extremely mild flavoring...I'll jus... Read More
t go along with the majority on that one. The flakes were packed upright & sideways through the entire length of the tin. They are tender flake strips that crumble more than seperate but the end result provides easy packing and a fantastic burn rate. The main differences I found between this and a quality English/ Balkan mixture is: Penzance isn't as sweet or as flavorful & doesn't pack much of a Vitamin N punch. However, I can see why so many pipers are attracted to this particular blend... because most pipers seem to prefer the milder blends. However, it is very comfortable on the palate because it is almost like stoking your pipe with plain air. It seemed to have lost its flavor & became rather bland after about 1/3 of the bowl is smoked down. To my way of thinking, it's like drinking decaffeinated coffee. What's the use? Since I don't inhale, I prefer a stronger blend & Penzance was wimpy, wimpy, wimpy. My first & last tin. There's much better to be had on a regular basis that is more satisfying. Try some Levant, Arango BS, HH Balkan, Crystal Palace, Blairgowrie, Trafalgar or blend your own Balkan by adding more Oriental to HH Syrian or just start from scratch with a good Cyprian leaf, Oriental Yenidje, Red VA, SG VA flake, Black Cavendish, & a touch of Perique & Burley for a much better result. It's easy & far more rewarding to simply blend your own... try it & see for yourself & save $$! Read Less
Hyped up blend
May 26, 2019
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I finally had a tin of this legendary blend. I loved the flake cut and the required crumbling. It's a real classic touch to the smoking experience. Esoterica blends have one of the most intriguing tin bouquets. I smell a strong note that I keep ident... Read More
ifying as olive. To date, this is the only Esoterica blend that I enjoyed. The smoking flavor is on the medium to full side. It lights up with a very creamy soft flavor but then about mid bowl develops a nice nutty, musky, complex. Almost peppery, as if it had perique in it. The latakia remained ever present. I wouldn't call this a lat bomb as many others have. The lat content is rather well managed compared to several other popular blends. This is a great evening smoke. I have to say that many other blends in this genre are just as good though not as unique in flavor. That strange olive note comes through in the smoke and sets it apart. I wouldn't say it makes it better, just very distinct in taste. I guess that makes for all the fuss.
Update: Mr Big - very interesting point you made. Reading the entire forum revealed 7 other iodine call outs, starting with reviewer Loosewatches back in July 2006. I too had a hard time placing that scent. I ended up landing on Olives. Curiously they have a fair amount of Iodine that occurs naturally. I did a smell test and there is a similarity between the antiseptic and the tin. Several other Esoterica blends have that same iodine scent as a noticeable component of the tin bouquet. As I mentioned, this is the only one where it comes through in the smoke for me. That unique taste is what drives the fuss for this blend. It sets it apart in flavor from other blends in the genre. Read Less
Just Plain Strange
February 15, 2018
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
It’s probably futile to write this review, since, it’s pretty much unavailabe and likely to stay that way. I got lucky and managed to acquire enough that my heirs will still be smoking it. I think the base flavor is something like bittersweet chocol... Read More
ate with a faint pepperiness. But hold on — that’s in this pipe, today. Tomorrow, same pipe, different taste. Diifferent pipe, yet another taste. As this pipe gets smoked the pepper rises and falls, then sweetness begins to build. One can see (well, taste) why this tobacco is legendary. Is it the best tobacco ever? Probably not, but if you like dark, dark Balkan/oriental blends, don’t pass up a chance to try it. Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Good old school smoke. But not the best I have had.
Overrated!
April 13, 2017
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
If ever there was an overrated tobacco in the market, the grand old Penzance is one. I nabbed an 8oz. bag a while back so had plenty of room for experimentation with different bowls, climes, and moods. No matter where and when I smoked this, the tast... Read More
e remained harsh, slightly sour, and generally uninteresting. As far as my palate is concerned, Esoterica has nothing whatsoever on the likes of McClelland or Russ Oulette's creations. Read Less
Revisited this blend..
November 14, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I revisited this blend after 4 months of it resting in a mason jar... it made a difference to me.. i still get a traditional english smell, leather , raisin, hay, latakia... but with a smoothe and slightly refined pungent quality... smoking it i get ... Read More
the same taste especially the smoothness and that weird almost day old porkchop fat like smell, if that makes sense to anybody, but nevertheless this is a unique smoke and i give it a 4 star and i would buy it again... Read Less
Balanced and refined
October 16, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
As others have said, why send an alert if there is no possibility to actually order the product?
After pondering, and getting over my initial annoyance, I'm revising. Penzance is a quality English, whose reputation is well deserved.
Really nice.
August 02, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
There is a tobacconist here in the Houston area that gets this stuff a few months out of the year.. its sporadic and so I'll call periodically to check in; in a sporadic fashion.
I became an avid hobby smoker about 3 1/2 years ago and admit that ... Read More
this blend was a waste on my then virginal tasters.
Not the case. Though I am firstly a VA smoker I will always reserve a spot in my bosoms for Penzance. In its case the hype is justified.
The mouthfeel, creamy.. oily even. Sweet Virginias/Orientals announce themselves often and evenly throughout the bowl with the latakia countering them in such a way as to prepare the palette anew for another exchange of those quality VA/Oriental leaves.
This blend was the first to pique my curiosity concerning Oriental leaf.
Believe the hype. I've tried several other English/Balkan mixtures that don't hold a candle to Penzance. It is sought after with good reason Read Less
Great fresh or cellared
July 31, 2015
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
I've got about five or six ounces from a pouch I snagged back in 2000, most of it has crumbled up but still tastes fantastic especially the bits with crystallized sugar on them. Delicious crumble kake flakes. Hope to score another pouch sooner or lat... Read More
er. Read Less
Product: Esoterica Penzance 8oz
Extra creamy smoke, latakia is very present but does not over-dominate the VA's. I wouldn't care if this blend wasn't hyped, it would still be my favorite, regardless of "rarity" and "brand name". If you can somehow get your hands... Read More
on some, don't lose the opportunity. Read Less
Have a problem
July 18, 2014
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
It is always out of stock,why?I have been waiting for it for nearly 5 years,but I've never tasted it yet.I feel so disappointed.
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
Hyped tobacco, with all the youtube and tobacco reviews I read and seen, thinking this tobacco is the holy grail of tobaccos... have 8oz of this stuff and would trade off in a heart beat.
Nice change of pace...
August 08, 2012
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
I would recommend this blend to people who (as I do) tend to stay primarily with Virginia flakes. Most Latakia blends call to my mind what it might be like to lick the bottom of an ashtray and, further, to dislike the experience. Penzance, however,... Read More
offers a pleasant flavor for an occasional departure from my customary favorites. Read Less
hard to come by
June 02, 2012
Product: Esoterica Penzance 2oz
picked up a tin on ebay. it was worth the wait to find it. smooth from start to finish. gets better and stronger as you smoke it down.was so good that i picked up 2 more tins on ebay. going to wait a year before trying a new tin to see how it ages.