Andrey Grigoriev: Sandblasted Brandy with Bamboo Tobacco Pipe

Russian artisan Andrey Grigoriev flexes his creativity well into the lightweight range with this straight Brandy, and does so with aplomb, delivering a 25-gram beauty with a cheeky, bulbous base that sits stably. The one-inch deep chamber is perfect for a quick and delightful smoke, while the pipe's compact length is a boon to the on-the-go smoker. That being said, there is no lack of visual and tactile interest with this piece; it is packed with texture and attention to detail.

It wears a stimulating sandblast and two-tone stain that perfectly accentuates growth rings climbing the bowl, contrasted well by the three pale knuckles of a bamboo of the shank extension. The bamboo's curvature is mirrored in the transition, as well as replicated well in a delightful faux bamboo knuckle at the stem's base. A charmingly abbreviated, hand-cut stem tops everything off with a trim presence at the button and well-executed slot funneling. This pipe promises excellent clenching potential, and a whole lot to admire when held or sitting on your desk.