Public Profile

Cornell & Diehl - Junkyard Dawg 2oz
Another C&D disappointment...
This one, is of two tins dated: Jan. `24, was again a bit of a letdown. Given the average rating of 4.4★. I don't understand how so many C&D blends are rated 4.0★ or higher here. I love Match: Barking Dog and Sutliff RL-BD (often distributed as Barking Dog substitute). Of which I have 3 lbs of still. This is another C&D blend that is bland and unimpressive; to me. It's something to put in your pipe, it's mild except for a bit of tongue tingle, but it left me wondering "where is the flavor?" Anyhow, I transferred it from its tin to a jar, and will give it more time....as is the usual for most C&D blends I've tried lately. Other than Bayou Night, Gentleman Caller, Mountain Camp, Engine #99, and Crooner that is. Those all I've left out to finish.

Cornell & Diehl - Briar Fox 2oz
It's OK...(*Updated*)
Just had my first bowl of this. Of which I have two tins dated Nov. `23. Although most C&D blends are bland and unimpressive, to me, this one at least delivered some flavor. But this came with some mild bite. So it is just OK for me...for now. I stuck it, from its tin, into a jar and will likely revisit it in time. But I will delete my bookmark, for it, from my 'next to order' list. For not yet being sure I will add more of it to my stash. *Updated*; I have continued working on that first tin, I opened, and it is growing on me in the positive direction. So I just updated from 4★ to 4.5★. And I do, now, plan to add a good bit more to my inventory.

Cornell & Diehl - Bayou Morning Flake 2oz
Not impressed...but we'll see.
Not impressed with the first bowl of a tin dated Dec. `24. Great Tin Art though; as is typical with C&D blends for me. Bland and unimpressive smoke w/good tin art. Will have to give this blend some time, a bunch of time, before returning to it for trying again. BTW, I love Bayou Evening much more than this Morn' blend. And believe its rating should be higher than this Morn' blend. I had this bookmark, I had, for ordering more for storing...but I have now deleted that bookmark.

Cornell & Diehl - Pegasus
Just OK...
Well, I tried this in one of my pipes that Burley typically shines in. It was just OK. Then I tried it in a slender-bore pipe and not much better. Burley definitely overshadows the others in this blend. But it, itself, isn't an outstanding Burley. Its flavor isn't consistent throughout the bowl. So I give it 3★ today for being a 'T' that is OK, but not likely to become one I would ever stock-up on. I'll most likely just finish it and then close the book on Pegasus. I might suggest others try the new Rivertown Tobacco Works - "Oak & Ember" over Pegasus. If seeking a mild yet tasty all-day "Burley forward" blend to pipe with. You'll save a few buck$, obviously, and I believe you'd get a bit more enjoyment out of it.

Cornell & Diehl - Mountain Camp
Such a tasty treasure this is...
Yep. I just started working on a few C&D blends: Mountain Camp _ Engine #99_ Haunted Bookshop_Bayou Night. Bayou Night was first tried and I thought it is rated much too low here; I gave it 4.5★. Then I tried Haunted Bookshop and thought it is rated much too high here. So I plan to give it a bit of time before trying again and rating it. Engine #99 is also rated higher than what I would give it right now, but again I will not rate it just yet. However, this Mountain Camp blend is just downright yummy...from start to finish and is so in any pipe, so far. Mine was a bit dry and I recommend leaving it so. Because when I tried to rehydrate just enough for a bowl...it went wrong. Anyhow, I suppose this means I am a Lata'phile (just over a year of piping). So long as Latakia is at the forefront. Heck...I don't even know if it is Latakia in the front seat or Oriental...or what, to be honest. But of these four, I am currently working through, I rate them from best to least: Mountain Camp_Bayou Night_Haunted Bookshop_and lastly, Engine #99.

Cornell & Diehl - Chenet's Cake 8oz
Not quite there yet...hoping some age helps.
I will start by saying "only pay attention to reviews by those who've tried this when aged." I have none to try, that is aged, so I tried to stove 2oz of my 10oz. Stove-time did improve it, some, but it isn't a blend that is yet convinced me to stock up on. I give it 4.0★ but I want to give it just 3.5★. I just don't want to hurt its average; for mine still being on the fresh side. Time will tell on this one. If you can find a generous soul, willing to send you some of this with some years on it, maybe you can try it and know if you should buy now...and enjoy later.

Cornell & Diehl - Bayou Night
This one seems deserving of a higher rating than its current 3.4★...
...because I just opened up a small 4oz jar, filled from 16oz I bought, that is dated Nov `23. I'm smoking it and thinking "what is going on here? It's quite complex/complicated and thought; "inspiring." I thought "is there anything I can compare this to when I post my review? Because this would be a pleasant substitution for anything I could compare it to and "is this VA and Burley? Nope." I thought of many blends while trying to make those connections. Now I see it is; Latakia, Perique, Virginias, Turkish, and Burleys. Therein lies the "complexity"...I suppose. Other thoughts I had; "this is a nice-tasty blend I could smoke when wanting to give my tongue a break, yet remains full of flavor/s." I see it is rated 4 of 5 on strength. But that seems a bit high. I do not believe this rating is accurate...for it's nic-level seems to deserve a lower rate. And I've had stronger nic-reactions to other 4 of 5 rated blends. So, I do recommend trying this, spend some time and give it a chance in multiple pipes. And just see if enjoy all it gives you. Which it does plenty of...throughout the bowl (top-to-bottom). This is becoming one of my favorites, in most pipes, but it doesn't work in all pipes. It is mechanically easy to smoke, and its taste lasts throughout the bowl. I just started working on some C&D Mountain Camp, Engine #99, and Haunted Bookshop. Mountain Camp will be receiving a high mark and will soon be reordered in bulk.But Haunted Bookshop and Engine #99 fell a bit short for me, and are just plain and underwhelming. Only good for maybe giving the tongue a break. So I will not yet rate those two.

Tabac de la Semois - Reserve du Patron 3.5oz
Another Fine Burley...from Semois.
I'm a first year piper, going into my second year, and Burley is my preference. I've recently tried "Tabac De La Semois: La Brumeuse" for the first time and I love it. It is one of my rare 5★ picks. But this one gets the same high mark of 5★. Even though I would rate it just a tiny bit below "La Brumeuse"...just not going to rate it at 4.5★. I popped open three 3.5oz bales of this, to put into a large jar, and already smoked a few bowls. Not noticing much of, if any, difference from "La Brumeuse." But it is slightly different. I did notice, from seeing it myself, there's more aniseed in this one. But this could be due only to how I transferred each from their bale into jars. I opened each bale of this and put into a large bowl, upon loosening the brick, and the aniseed was everywhere. Made me feel like I was back in the 70's sorting out seeds, in a shoe-box lid, from another smoke'able leaf. Only, I didn't sort out the aniseed from this Reserve du Patron. Anyhow, and again as was with the La Brumeuse, this is a 'gourmet' Burley. Possibly the finest, but surely, the most flavorful Burley I have yet tried. Always happy to gather more and more of this stuff; when available. It's not one I smoke throughout any whole day. But for those moments...absolutely reaching for and lighting up a bowl of any Burley from Tabac De La Semois.

Gawith Hoggarth & Co. - Kendal Mixed
This is VA forward, in taste, regardless of the percentages...
I am not a huge VA fan...but GH&Co - VA blends are growing on me. More so than any VA I have tried to date; in my first year of piping. So, because of this, you may want to pay more attention to reviews from VA lovers. But I gave this a 4.5★ ...for now; I do always *Update* when deserved. It is a bit moist, so dry it some....and maybe even some more. This does deliver the "citrus" (seemingly grapefruit-like mostly) throughout the bowl when it has moisture in it. I recommend you dry one pinch to the crispiness of a Tabac de la Semois (if familiar with it). So that you can see the wide range this blend can cover from moist to crispy-dry...and then find your own sweet spot thereafter.

Gawith Hoggarth & Co. - Brown Twist
This stuff has gotten better after just one year.
I received this near a year ago. I tried it back then and decided to give it some jar-time. I just opened that jar, dated to have been received Jan. `24, and smoked a bowl. So I've only smoked it in one of my pipes (Savi. Bing's Fav') and it was delightful...for a VA (not the biggest VA fan here). It was gentle, mellow, and wow...flavorful; with a mild sweetness, and all of those other VA notes people say a Dark-VA provides. It's just an enjoyable smoke. It does require some drying-time before loading up; because it is moist. Otherwise, without drying, it is tough to light and keep lit. So, I do plan to add 500g of this to my collection for the future. (*Update*) I did it already, and added 500g more of this to the storeroom. Just going through it with other pipes, now, to see if any beat this in a Bing's Fav'.

Gawith Hoggarth & Co. - Balkan Mixture
This separates itself from others I've tried...
Just had my first bowl of a recent 2oz purchase. I am no expert on pipe 'T's...as I have only been at it for one year. I have recently gone through some of my HH Balkan Blend (pkg. dated Mar. 2023) and Arango Balkan Supreme (rec'd Mar. 2024). Because of those two, in a good way, I grabbed up this 2oz of GH & Co. Balkan Mixture. The HH Balkan (Mac Baren) can be a bit "hot" at times, mostly only in the retro-hale, but on the mild side in regards to taste & strength. The Arango...I love and rated it here at 4.5★. Although my personal rating for Arango Balkan Supreme is 4.8★. This one, for me, gets a 4.5★ for being just a tiny bit below Arango Balkan...but not much. This differs from Arango in that this GH & Co. has a much more noticeable fruity-forward taste, if you will, nearly throughout the bowl. This, though, is nearly as tasty as, and perhaps going to end up being equal to, Arango's Balkan. I currently now have more than 1 lb of Arango and 500g of this. It is worthy of trying if you enjoy Balkans. Taste is really good and mild enough for repeated bowls, yet it's got a good nic-kick. So expect those familiar GH & Co "niccups" from time to time.

Peter Stokkebye - PS403 Luxury Bullseye Flake
Good, fresh, but could maybe be better when...
I now have, on hand, 9.5 lbs of this. And while it is "good" when fresh...it can be a bit better. I've already smoked 0.5 lbs of it before I learned about putting this into jars, then into a stove. Try using three jars, the same size (try either 4oz or 8oz jars), and add the same number of coins/slices into each jar. Separate the coins/slices when loading up your jars...so they aren't pressed together. Use foil in place of the sealing lid and screw on the ring. Stove at 190°F and vary the stoving-time to later figure out how much time in the stove works to suit your taste. Try removing one each, of those three jars, at: 1hrs20mins, and 1hrs40mins, and 2hrs. I do not recommend stoving this blend more than 2 hrs; it tends to lose all VA-sweetness if you let it go too long in the stove. I use oven-mitts when removing the jars, when the time is up, and for safety reasons when then immediately swapping the foil for the sealing lid. Use the ring, obviously, for holding both the foil while in the oven and with the sealing lid to cool and store. When it cools it creates a vacuum and pops the sealing lid down. Then leave those jars stored away for two weeks before you open them again, two weeks later, and whoosh.

Rivertown Tobacco Works - Mystic Moor
Just 3★...for now. Time will tell...(*Updated*)
I purchased these four, 4oz, samples of the RTW blends: Sunrise Select__Oak & Ember__Crimson Shadow__Mystic Moor. This one is the fourth/last blend I tried...and well, it's OK. I tried Sunrise Select first, Oak & Ember second, Crimson Shadow, and this Mystic Moor lastly. All of these I tried are just so-so. Mystic Moor, though, tries coming through as an English. Only the VA tries taking the spotlight here, leaving the Lat' a bit weak; and the VA needs some age. It, the VA, hits you with a highly citrus punch...just as did the others I tried. With Crimson Shadow being a bit more mellow, for the Red VA, than the others; for what I assume to be bright/light-VA. Although Oak & Ember tastes a bit different, for its Burley, Oak & Ember isn't likely to ever encroach upon the top of, or halfway up, my Burley-blend list. These are all pure 'T' but they are mild and, well, a bit bland/fresh. Perhaps perfect for an all day smoker, maybe, for blending something in to add some flavor/taste, or even after some age. I just removed Sunrise Select from the oven; after 2.5 hrs @ 190°F. I'll give it a couple of weeks in its jar before going round two with it and see if it improves. I'll likely stove this and the others as well. And then I will *Update* my reviews of these four RTW samples. My 3★ rating, for me...so you know, is what I rate blends when they leave me on the fence; where the 2★-side is "not likely going to buy again" and the 4★-side is "likely going to keep around." (*Updated*) I downgraded this one from 3★ to 2.5★ because initially, upon lighting this after two weeks since I stoved this, it tasted good. I was actually thinking of upgrading it to 4★. But that quickly disappeared after maybe just 1/4 bowl. So it still may have a chance because I will now smoke this in more of my pipes. Of the four I tried, this one and Oak & Ember might be purchased again. But, as of now, only Oak & Ember looks to be the one RTW blends, I sampled, to be added to my stock in the future.

Rivertown Tobacco Works - Oak & Ember
Just 3★...for now. Time will tell...(*Updated*)
I purchased these four, 4oz, samples of the RTW blends: Sunrise Select__Oak & Ember__Crimson Shadow__Mystic Moor. This one is the second blend I tried...and well, it's OK. I tried Sunrise Select first, Oak & Ember second, Crimson Shadow, and Mystic Moor lastly. All of these I tried are just so-so. They are pure 'T' but they are mild and, well, a bit bland/fresh. Perhaps perfect for an all day smoker, maybe, or for blending something in to add some flavor/taste. I just removed Sunrise Select from the oven; after 2.5 hrs @ 190°F. I'll give it a couple of weeks in its jar before going round two with it and see if it improves. I'll likely stove this and the others as well. And then I will *Update* my reviews of these four RTW samples. My 3★ rating, for me...so you know, is what I rate blends when they leave me on the fence; where the 2★-side is "not likely going to buy again" and the 4★-side is "likely going to keep around." (*Updated*) Going to leave this one at 3★. It seems pleasant now, but still didn't convince me it is one I would purchase again, but considering doing so. It almost made me want to crack open my tub of Half & Half to compare it to. And...it almost seemed like a much more mild replacement for Gawith & Hoggarth's: Dark Bird's Eye. I'm going to keep thinking of this one, though, and trying it in more of my pipes. I could see this being one to stock up on and just leave it sitting in storage. If I do so...this one will be updated and bumped up from 3★ to 4★.

Rivertown Tobacco Works - Crimson Shadow
Just 3★...for now. Time will tell....(*Updated*)
I will start off by saying I am not the biggest fan of VA...so you may want to pay more attention to reviews made by VA lovers; as VA is for Lovers, right? I purchased these four, 4oz, samples of the RTW blends: Crimson Shadow__Sunrise Select__Oak & Ember__Mystic Moor. This one is the third blend I tried...and well, it's OK. I tried Sunrise Select first, Oak & Ember second, Crimson Shadow, and Mystic Moor lastly. All of these I tried are just so-so. They are pure 'T' but they are mild and, well, a bit bland/fresh. Perfect for an all day smoker, maybe, or for blending something in to add some flavor/taste. I just removed Sunrise Select from the oven; after 2.5 hrs @ 190°F. I'll give it a couple of weeks in its jar before going a round two with it. If it improves. I'll likely stove this and the others as well. And then *Update* my reviews of these four RTW samples. My 3★ rating, for me...so you know, is what I rate blends when they leave me on the fence; where the 2★-side is "not likely going to buy again" and the 4★-side is "likely going to keep around." (*Updated*) Downgraded this from 3★ to 2★. I thought it's OK, but still not one I would re-stock. If you like VA's then this one may be worth you giving a try. I did, however, find Crimson Shadow to be more pleasing than RTW's Sunrise Select. But still I give them both just 2★. I do still have hope for their Oak & Ember and Mystic Moor blends. You can check out my reviews of those if you like.

Rivertown Tobacco Works - Sunrise Select
Just 3★...for now. Time will tell....(*Updated*...again)
I will start off by saying I am not the biggest fan of VA...so you may want to pay more attention to reviews made by VA lovers; as VA is for Lovers, right? Anyhow, I purchased these four, 4oz, samples of the RTW blends: Sunrise Select__Oak & Ember__Crimson Shadow__Mystic Moor. This one, Sunrise Select, is the first blend I tried...and well, it's OK. I tried this Sunrise Select RTW-blend first, Oak & Ember second, Crimson Shadow, and lastly...Mystic Moor. All of these I tried are just so-so. They are pure 'T' but they are mild and, well, a bit bland/perhaps-fresh. But perhaps perfect for an all day smoker, maybe, or for blending something in to add some flavor/taste. Or for when just giving your tongue a break. I just removed Sunrise Select from the oven; after 2.5 hrs @ 190°F. I'll give it a couple of weeks in its jar before going round two with it and see if it improves. I'll likely stove the other RTW bolends as well and see if the "stoving" made any improvement. And then I will *Update* my reviews of these four RTW samples. My 3★ rating, for me...so you know, is what I rate blends when they leave me on the fence; where the 2★-side is "not likely going to buy again" and the 4★-side is "likely going to keep around." (*Updated*) Bumped this one up from 3★ to 2.0★. It definitely didn't improve to my liking, and is just OK. But is not one I would keep around, again for not being a fan of VA, nor to stock up on; in hopes aging will turn it into something desirable. (*Updated*...again) I bumped this up from 2.0★ to 3.5★. But not on its own merits alone. I have been working on this, out of those four RTW blends, for it being my least favorite of the four. And the upgraded rating is due to adding a GH&Co. blend to it. To a "bowl's worth" (of a pinch) of Sunrise Select (SS), I have been sprinkling in some Dark Flake Aromatic (DFA), by GH&Co.; no more than perhaps 20%. But no so much DFA it overtakes the VA, but enough to enhance it; so the VA still comes through as the dominate taste. And that makes this one much tastier and enjoyable. So I don't believe SS deserves a higher rating, alone, but I can now stand to smoke it.

Gawith Hoggarth & Co. - American Delite
This one learned me something...
First Bowl...and right out of the ziploc, containing a 2oz sample, I thought this one is the biggest letdown of all GH &Co. blends I've yet tried (of six). I thought if you like super blandness, then this one fits that bill. However, for that reason, I could see it being someone's all-day smoke. Then, after having some more, I edited this review and bumped it up from 2.5★ to 4.5★ and here's why; I smoked this in one of my pipes, after my initial review, and it tasted pretty darn good. But I forgot to take note of which pipe it was. So I then smoked it once in each of my briar-pipes (near two dozen) to find "that one pipe." I noted it only tasted "great" in 2 to 3 of them all. So I next thought of trying it in all of my briars again. But next time, while using the balsa filters (in those made for the 6mm filters) and removing all of the 6mm adapters I had installed (for the reduction of hassle...for just started piping one year ago and knowing any better). Now this blend tastes good in every 6mm filter pipe that didn't make the list before. And so I ordered 1 lb more of American Delite. I now say this is worthy of giving it a try. Try it in every pipe of yours, use the filters if so equipped, even let it dry some. But not too much (10 min's max for what I rec'd) because I left some out for nearly an hour and it really became bland. It is especially worthy of giving it a try if seeking a mild, and unoffensive, yet tasteful blend. Plus, this is one you can have numerous times each day without any fear of bite.

Gawith Hoggarth & Co. - Dark Bird's Eye Vintage Cut
This one is growing on me...updated from 3.5★ to 4.0★.
I would recommend this; for trying an 'oz' or two. This one is better with the moisture left "as-is"; when received. I tried a couple of bowls after allowing it to dry some, from a handful of minutes for one bowl, to crispy dry for another; and it is better as-received. *Update*: after having more of it, and for not drying it prior to filling a bowl, this one is growing on me. So it is now a firm 4.0★....and is encroaching upon a 4.5★ with each bowl. This blend is definitely "Burley strong/dominant." But it comes with a tasty bit of sweetness in the first half of a bowl with the savory side of Burley in the second half. I'm now considering ordering more of it....no, wait, I just ordered 1/2 of a kilo!

Peter Stokkebye - PS41 Cube Cut
Not Yet Ready For Prime-Time...
When I ordered this, my 4oz, I thought it was 100% Burley; for being a cube cut (what was I thinking). When it arrived, and I transferred it into a jar, I scooped out a bowl and lit it. At the forefront, predominantly, there was Virginia flavors...and "not yet ready for prime-time" VA. I recalled "thinking isn't this Burley?," and went and looked again, and saw it is VA & Burley; but listed as "Family: Burley." Anyhow, for it only being 4oz, I replaced the sealing lid with foil and in to the oven it went (190°F for two-plus hours); to mellow the "not yet ready" VA. I will *update* this review after waiting two plus weeks before I light another bowl of it. For now, I give it a 4★ rating; in keeping with the average you all have given it. Other than all of this, it seems it could be a favorable smoke. If the adolescent VA would just mature already! *Update*; OK, opened up the jar I ran through the stove and it's just not a blend I would likely keep "on hand." So I dropped my previous 4★ rating to 3.5★. I still have some of this in another jar, that wasn't "cooked" in the stove, and I will give it all some time. But don't expect another update for at least one year from now....maybe more.

Arango - Balkan Supreme
This one is deserving of a high rating...
This one is interesting and challenging, but not in any bad way. Mine was moisture-perfect and requires no re-lighting and hardly any tamping as well; all while producing plenty of smokey clouds. A lightly packed bowl gives you a very pleasant (but not over-taking) citrus-like, almost sweet taste, along with typical notes for this type of blend. And, with little to no tamping, that all lasts throughout the bowl. But if you prefer the more Eng./Balk. (w/reduced sweetness) right from the start, then initially pack the bowl a bit more firmly and tamp it right after you light it...and keep it tamped. Also, I never detect any retro bite nor tongue bite. It's just a pleasant and interesting smoking experience. It deserves it's rating of between 4.5★ and 5★...although I've just not tried many Eng./Balk. blends, to date, to know if 5★ is where it should be. But I gave it 5★ to keep the average, for this one, nearer to 5★ than to 4.5★. I've already added an additional 1lb to my original 8oz purchase. And plan to grab up another 16oz of it, or more, soon. It really delivers from my Savi 804's and Rossi 8804's (with their Balsa filters)...and Neerup's. Meaning it likely performs well in any large/deep bowl. So try it in those pipes, if you got'em, or in a pipe with a deep/large-dia. bowl. The stuff will attempt to burn, continuously, right down to the bottom. So for that reason; if you prefer to leave some dottle for protecting the bottom of the bowl...then you have a challenge on your hands. Because it is a struggle to stop puffing on this blend.

Tabac de la Semois - La Brumeuse 3.5oz
Different, Interesting, and a Wonderful Burley...for a Change.
Just received two 3.5 oz of this, and had my first bowl....and then some hours later; another bowl of it. As in the product description, and some reviews, I will not attempt to add moisture to it. And I also packed the bowl on the tight side and tamped a bit more firmly when smoking. But you will know how much is needed to control heat and burn. I did notice the licorice notes, mentioned by others, when I opened the packs to add to a jar. However, I did not notice it (the licorice) when smoking. This has a really great room-note...it's mild to smoke, and isn't as strong of a Nic' buzz as they have it rated here. If you are into Burley, or want to try a different yet excellent tasting Burley than those you may have had before, then try this one. The price may keep you from this one becoming your daily; I did nearly give it a 4★or 4.5★ for the $/oz price alone. But I decided to rate just the tobacco; for it's sake alone. I suggest you try this in a number of your pipes and find which of them delivers the best taste, for you, when paired together. I've found I enjoy it more in two of my briars, and both have a small diameter bowl; 0.66 inch and 0.79 inch. But in a large-diameter pipe bowl, the tastes become more muted...and it all changes. The best way to describe it, at its best, is; it's like having a sip of Gin and a puff of a good cigar...with the taste of gin still lingering.

Missouri Meerschaum - Drawdown 2oz
Not much offered here.
I see the other two reviews and am lost for words. Because I get nothing from this blend. It gives me nothing notable to report; be it good or bad. It comes as a 'ready rubbed' cut, as in the lengthy description, and it is not ribbon as shown for "Cut:" Also, it smokes better if you do not rub it out. any further. Just pack it and leave it a bit airy, or loose, in the bowl. Tin note is mildly pleasing (so what) and the taste....well, again, nothing. I have two and most of a third tin of this...and I will fairly update my rating in time if something changes. But for now my rating stands. My 1-★ is for blends I regret having to smoke...and 2-★ is for OK blends, but not going to buy again. I don't foresee this one ever reaching 3-★ for me; 3-★ being my rating for a blend I am on the fence which separates blends I won't buy again from those I will. *UPDATE* I switched this from 1.5-★ to 2.5-★ putting it near "on the fence for me." Because it is growing on me...a tiny bit. Still finding it to be better when 'not rubbed out' and packed loosely; allowing more air around it all, in the bowl. And, perhaps not surprisingly, it does appeal to me more from a MM Cob. I would say try it, don't over buy just yet, but don't expect it to be "knock your socks off" good.

Captain Earle's - Reflections 2oz
First Bowl Wasn't Bad
I just started piping, nearly four months ago. So take this 'first bowl' review with that in mind. I emptied the contents from one of my 32 oz latch-lock jars and needed to decide; "What's Next?" So of the 200 or so blends I've collected, some for now and most for aging, I saw I have four Captain Earle blends. I wanted to open something more "English"...and I see I have three tins each of three Earle's blends, but just one tin of 'Reflections.' So I looked at the star-ratings and saw Reflections was the lowest rated of the four I have. I then found the tin and noticed it's dated June 2022; one month shy of two years old. So I popped its lid and broke apart the biscuit. When I lit it up...I was really enjoying it. Couldn't quite yet declare what I was tasting, but was pleasing nonetheless. It was a bit better, though, the first half of the bowl. I found myself thinking about experimenting and adding a touch more Latakia. So I smoked this in my Clarin: Canadian Clay; it was a bit on the dry side, but wasn't too dry. It was tasty, again couldn't put my finger on what I tasted. It was smooth and easy on the tongue. But it gave me a bit of "retro-hale" bite in the nose. And no unpleasant aftertaste. I will smoke it in a few Cobs and Briars and then return to *edit* this review when I've gotten halfway through this tin. So for now I give it 4★ today...in keeping with the average you all give it. Four stars is my rating given for "I like it and will likely keep some around to smoke from time to time, not daily, and because I agree with 4★'s. Only 'Daily' gets 5★'s from me.

Gawith Hoggarth & Co. - Kendal Kentucky Vintage Cut
Good So Far ... *updated 9 months later*
I just had a "first bowl" of this and I can not yet give a pure review. But I wasn't disappointed at all. The rest is going into a jar. So I give it a 4.5★ rating; in keeping with the current overall average. *Update*...some nine months later; Wow! This is really good. Just opened my jar, with this in it, and tried a bowl two days ago. This is far above and beyond all other blends, about 3 dozen, I've tried this year (being my first year). It's got such a nice and noticeable tobacco taste. It is a bit strong....so you may experience those "niccups" I've only imagined before trying this one. But this happened only during my first bowl. Also, it tastes best, at least for me, in a smaller diameter bowl. Tried it in my Bent POT (Savi w/0.92" diameter) pipes, larger diameter bowls, and wasn't as flavorful/enjoyable as in a pipe (with near 0.66" to 0.79" diameter) such as: a Billiards, Bing's Fav', Eltang Basic, etc.. Even of those, it's best in one pipe (Nording "Erik the Red" Billiard) more than in others. It's second best in my Eltang Basic pipes. So, dedicate a briar to this one...after you've found "the one."

Cornell & Diehl - Crowley's Best
This one is interesting yet strange.
I just received 8oz of this and just now had a bowl. So yes, this is another one of those "after-one-bowl" review. But I just started piping in mid-Jan. 2024; two months ago. I didn't look at which T's this blend has in it. What I did get was something I am unfamiliar with. Or was until today...and that would be Perique. I was out there thinking is this my first VaPer? I was so confused by this. I couldn't wait to get back inside to see if I was correct. Only to learn; I was wrong. It is: Perique, Latakia, and Burley. The Perique was the most present, the Latakia was hinting with only jabs and I only noticed when smelling it in its jar, and the Burley was pummeled into submission and left the scene. So for me this is a bit spicey. And even more so if you draw with a slightly open mouth. Then it really comes across w/the spice. Once it burned to near the halfway mark it got interesting. I found myself tasting something I would normally want to chew. Only I couldn't recognize what that would be and .... there's nothing there to chew on. Not sure what that was about, but again...interesting. I will likely change today's Star rating in the future, because that's the fair thing to do. But for now, I give it the rating matching the overall average for this; and for it being my first bowl. A 4-Star rating from me means; pretty good and I will keep some on hand to smoke from time to time. For a 5-Star from me, it must be one I want and will light up daily. A 3-Star is one that's OK, but I am on the fence still; to buy again or not.

Old Dominion - The Dutchman Clay Pipe
These are worth trying.
I'm new to piping at age 61 yrs. In the past few weeks I've ordered more than two dozen pipes. Both this "The Dutchman," and their "Williamsburg," are both great pipes. I would, now, always recommend a beginner to start with a Clay pipe. So to first learn pipe smoking before moving up to briars; so to build cake before burning up a new briar. Because if you can learn to smoke, a Clay pipe, cool enough to hold onto its bowl...you are 'then' ready to smoke from a briar. I highly recommend trying at least one; The Dutchman or the Williamsburg. I added near 1.5 inches of 5/16" (8mm) heat-shrink tube to the mouth pieces of each. Cleaning them is as easy as running it through a 2 hour self-clean cycle in your oven but first, and obviously, remove the heat-shrink tubing.

Cornell & Diehl - Izmir Turkish
I used mine to mix my own English Blend.
I haven't smoked this separately, but I mean to (so to learn to identify Turkish tobacco flavor in blends). Because I just started piping mid-Jan. 2024. I did collect 4oz of this and I mixed all but a pinch of the 4oz (15%) of it to 16oz (60%) of Daughters and Ryan's: Windsail Silver, and 6.7oz (25%) of C&D's Latakia for making my own English blend. The three were very dry, perfect for accurate mixing weights, so I used OUZO Metaxa w/water, from a dropper bottle, for adding a bit of licorice flavor and moisture of course. Gently worked it all together, rehydrating as needed, in a Rubbermaid (2.5 gallon) tub w/red-top. And Voila! The mix is yummy. I have a number of blends, open currently, that I have daily. And I find this, my own mix, is the one I'm reaching for, or wanting to reach for, the most.

Cornell & Diehl - Latakia
Used this to mix my own English blend.
I haven't smoked this separately, but I mean to (so to learn to identify Latakia's flavor). Because I just started piping mid-Jan. 2024. I did collect 8oz of this and I mixed 6.7oz (25%) of it to 16oz (60%) of Daughters and Ryan's: Windsail Silver, and 4oz (15%) of C&D's Izmir Turkish for making my own English blend. The three were very dry, perfect for accurate mixing weights, so I used OUZO Metaxa w/water, from a dropper bottle, for adding a bit of licorice flavor and moisture of course. Gently worked it all together in a Rubbermaid (2.5 gallon) tub w/red-top. And Voila! The mix is yummy. I have a number of blends out currently, that I rotate through daily, and I find my own mix is the one I'm reaching for, or wanting to reach for the most. I think, other than for mixing, I will gather up more of this to do, as others have said; bump up the Lat-level of other blends. So 4.5 Stars is for in keeping with the current rating you all gave this; given I have mixed mine.

Cornell & Diehl - Morley's Best
I do enjoy this blend....every day.
Four weeks ago I bought an 8oz bulk bag and I transferred it into a latch-lock Ball jar when it arrived; around three weeks ago. When I did so, it had that typical smell of an English blend (nearly). What I am trying to figure out, now, is; over the past few days, when I open its jar, it has a strong, almost, fermenting fruit smell. I removed it all yesterday, spread it out, and allowed it to dry for near three, maybe four, hours. Because it did feel a bit moist. And I worried, just a bit, it needed a bit of drying. It still has that sweet fruity smell, now that it's drier, yet still tastes great. Just not sure what the tobacco is going through at the moment; regarding the smell upon opening the jar. So I give it 4.5 Stars because my Stars are given as such: 1-nope, never again __ 2-was OK, but not going to buy again __ 3-on the fence; buy again or not __ 4-good enough to always have on hand to smoke from time to time __5-yes, daily please. Currently I nearly have this daily, but I don't find myself always tempted to reach for it. So, this is one you may also find to be worthy of having around as well. It's smoke is extremely comfortable. And for me is reminiscent, again, of English blends...but more mellow, so to speak. I enjoy it nearly every morning, w/coffee, in a large diameter bowl such as my Savinelli 320's and 321's, or in Savinelli and Rossi 316's. Hardly ever requires tamping or relighting. Oh, and yes, I copied it's bookmark and added its link to my next to order list to buy more. *UPDATE* I still really enjoy this blend. It always pleases and offends none of my senses. I have found it to really shine from a Clay pipe though. So today I bumped it from 4.5 to 5 Stars...and will continue enjoying this one daily.

Villiger - English Export 1.5oz
Hard to rate this...
First bowl impressions...will update if warranted. Hard to rate this; when comparing it to a limited number of other available "American style (w/Burley): English/Balkan" blends. At first I'm thinking "not a terrible American/English budget-blend; and the price?!?...not bad." But still, at this price of $55/lb, I would always choose C&D's 'Morley's Best' at $43/lb in bulk; for my American-style English. With that said, it isn't horrible. In fact I kind of enjoyed it. It is cut a bit rough and inconsistent. There are some larger bits of leaf mixed in. And when your ember hits a large piece of oriental, or other, that's all you're going to get. It's like a box of tobacco-chocolates. So it may be better to use a large diameter bowl with this blend, as you might for any complex blend, so the ember is burning more of the various components at the same time. Which I will eventually do; my first bowl was in a Billiard. I think anyone would enjoy this at some level. But I give it 2.5 Stars because I am in between my 2 Star (2; is OK but I wouldn't buy it again) and a 3 Star (3; I like it but am on the fence to buy again or not). I wanted to rate it as a 'budget' American/English blend. But at, again, $55/lb...it isn't truly a bargain when compared to other bulk offerings. I would suggest trying it, if you enjoy American style English blends. I mean it does have Perique and Oriental in addition to the: VA, Burley, and Latakia in Morley's Best. Try it in a large diameter bowl and see what you think. *Update* I've bumped this down from 2.5 Stars to 1.0 Stars. I've finished with it and I never really enjoyed it. Smoking it was always a chore because once lit, if you can call it that, it never was happy to just burn. Work, work, work...and never really got to spend a minute of smoking it for the enjoyment of it. So; a 1 Star rating from me is given to one I really wish I had never experienced. And this is one of those blends.

Cornell & Diehl - Gentleman Caller 2oz
This really works for me...
A few days ago, I received one 2oz tin of this (G.C.) and I put it away. A day later I received about 1.5oz of Crooner (another Deer Tongue infused blend), by C&D, from a youtube creator. So I tried Crooner that evening, in an Old Dominion Dutchman, and fell in love with the taste. This morning I just had to open the tin of G.C. and it too is now loved. So save some of this, and Crooner, for me and my next order. I recommend a light packing of the bowl (more so w/Crooner) and resist the urge to tamp; doing so, lightly, only when necessary. I do prefer the two in both my O.D. Dutchman and my Clarin Canadian clays. The two blends also work well in a Cob, but again, with light tamping. I found them more enjoyable when holding the mouthpiece forward, allowing an open seal of the lips for drawing in fresh air during the draw. Using the tip of my tongue to both grab the flavor and monitor the heat on the intake. I will likely revise my 4.5 Star rating (being my initial impression), on both this and Crooner, to 5 Stars soon. Because I am leaning strongly toward wanting both Gent Caller and Crooner on the daily. With "wanting it around daily" being my standard for me to give up a 5 Star rating. With those I really like and only wanting it from time to time; deserving of a 4 Star rating.

Cornell & Diehl - Crooner 2oz
I really like this...a lot!
*Original review:* I just received a 1.5oz sample of Crooner today from a youtube creator. I just had a bowl of this Crooner, in a new Old Dominion "The Dutchman" pipe. And I really like the stuff (granted, first bowl). I recommend trying this one...and I still find it best in my Clay pipes (Williamsburg and The Dutchman by Old Dominion). In the Williamsburg Clay, I add a small nest of ribbon-cut Burley; to keep the small cubes from traveling up the stem of the pipe. *Update (Feb. 2025)* I have since ordered 2 lbs of Crooner and two small tins. I adjusted my Star rating today from 5★ to 4★. The "WHY" is because throughout my first year of piping, and for trying more Burley blends, I find this a bit weak in flavor/taste for a Burley. I do still enjoy it, but if you enjoy your Burley...this one leaves you seeking that definitive taste of Burley; however pleasant and mild it still is. Throughout this first year I have come to learn that many of the C&D blends, and I have 44 of them, fall a bit short on taste; as is the new line of Rivertown Tobacco Works blends of which C&D oversees production. When I compare my C&D style of blends (English, VaPer, Balkan, etc.) to others, I notice the blandness of those C&D offerings. I only hope that the C&D blends still remaining in my "cellar" improve with years of aging. Where I intend to keep them for years.....and years.....before trying again.

Clarin Clay - The Canadian One
Wouldn't buy another.
Granted, it is a nice pipe and it is, at first, seemingly made well. My issue with it is the small airway through the stem to the bowl. It can't be more than 2mm. And the airway doesn't have a smooth transition into the bowl. Every pipe cleaner I try passing through the stem must be carefully fed into it, mm by mm, in order to prevent the cleaner from bending. Because once it bends you cannot even straighten the cleaner and continue using that cleaner. You must try another fresh and straight pipe cleaner. Then, if your pipe cleaner does reach the bowl, the pipe cleaner gets stuck, on the step up to the bowl, just before it can pass through into the bowl. I would choose three Old Dominion pipes, Williamsburg or The Dutchman, over this Clarin; equaling about the same cost. I have three of each of these Old Dominion Clay pipes: (3)Williamsburg and (3)The Dutchman. Neither of the Old Dominions give me any trouble. And they clean completely when placed on a rack for a 2-hour self-clean cycle in the oven; as do all clay pipes.

Daughters & Ryan - Windsail Silver
Good bargain...is all I can say.
This surprised me because upon first impressions I'm looking at an extremely dry "Bale" of tobacco. I do see many large stem-sized veins mixed in...and I spent many minutes removing as many as I could. However, when one buys 'Bulk tobacco' that is very dry, as this is, there's a bonus; you receive much more than if it were moistened. Anyhow, I rate it at 3.5★ with; 3.0★ being given to a tobacco I am on the fence with, and 4★ is given to a tobacco I may keep on hand. But this is likely to end up being one I stay away from in the future.

Missouri Meerschaum - Party Line 2oz
Just OK, and nothing to celebrate.
Not sure why they call this an Aromatic. It reminds me of C&D's Night Train; both in tin note and taste. Only Night Train is less expensive if bought in bulk. In addition, the absence of Virginia in Party Line doesn't distinguish it far enough apart from Night Train. So I would recommend trying Night Train before Party Line. For me it is, at the moment, 2-Stars. Because this is one I would not keep in stock to partake of from time to time; which would be a 4-Star blend for me (3 Stars I give if "on the fence" to buy again or not). I have three tins of Party Line, with one of those three open. Perhaps some age on the other two tins will put me back up on the fence. But right now I am slightly leaning toward this remaining on the 2-Star side of the 3-Star fence. Party Line, has a funny way, though, of putting me on both sides; as I keep changing my rating from 2 to 3.5 Stars. Sometimes it's disappointing and other times give me that "maybe" feeling and thoughts.

Cornell & Diehl - From Beyond 2oz
Pretty dang good...it's Far Out!
From beyond is Far Out! Smoked in Rossi Antico 8316 and a couple of Savinelli 316 KS's. I love complex blends in those bent pots. Also, I enjoyed "From Beyond" the most when dried to nearly a crisp. All of the great flavors shine then, and sipping a bowl has no ill effects. Just delicately keep the ember atop the fresh tobacco and your good to go. My Stars given is: 4=really good and want some around to smoke from time to time. And 5=so very good, I want to have it daily. So I give it 4.5 for it being a Small Batch run. And for that reason, I know I have to be stingy with it. If any of this is left on the shelves...get some, let it dry, and try it in a large-diameter bowl.

Missouri Meerschaum - Great Dane 1.5oz
Wow...I'm impressed. But you must dry it, and then dry it.
I've just started piping in mid January. Yesterday, after collecting dozens of blends the past 1.5 months, I thought "I may not even like these Cherry Blends." So I began trying them all. Yesterday I got through a bowl of each of these: Paladin: Wild Cherry _ Missouri Meerschaum: Taste of Temptation _ Sillem's: Red _ P.Stokkebye: PS3 Cherry _ Cobblestine Indulge: Cherry Delight. Of those I tried, they rank: number one: Sillem's red ... and number two: PS3 Cherry. But this Great Dane blend leaves those two far far behind. Yes, I do understand it is not a Full-Cherry flavoring; with "vanilla and caramel." But it is so much more pleasing of a smoke. Its taste did dissipate a bit, at about 3/4 down the bowl during my first bowl. But even then it doesn't turn offensive. My first bowl process: Dry it out well, yes; well...took nearly one and a half hour for a decent portion to fill a bowl to dry. I packed it a bit loosely with attention to good airflow ... poked a hole down the center, and checked the flow again. Once lit, I kept the ember touching fresh tobacco by tamping lightly; two or three times only was needed throughout the bowl. And then sipped gently. It burns very well, its taste nearly lasts throughout the bowl, and it gives off no offensive taste nor aftertaste. I rated it 4.5 Stars; in between 4 and 5. For it being between me wanting some on hand to smoke a bowl from time to time (my 4-Star criteria) and 5-Stars for being one I gotta have every day (my 5-Star criteria). *UPDATE* Yesterday I dumped 3 oz (contents of 2 pouches) from its Mason jar; into a glass pie plate for drying. Because I tried a bowl without drying; big mistake! I left it out overnight and it was still too moist this morning. So I laid out some paper towels so to spread out the tobacco even thinner. This stuff is so much better when dried WELL...very WELL. If dried and then dried some more, so it no longer feels tacky and makes that "rustling" sound, your ready for: no bite, generous plumes of clouds, and a sweet smoke. I am using Clay pipes (Old Dominion: Williamsburg and Dutchman) in getting these results.

Peter Stokkebye - PS3 Cherry
I Don't Like Cherry...or do I?
...if this is what Cherry flavored tobaccos are. Today was my "hey, I'll try all of my Cherry Blends" day today. I recently started piping in mid January 2024. I've collected near 100 blends since then. Of those, in the Cherry realm, I have: Cobblestone Indulge: Cherry Delight _ Paladin: Wild Cherry _ Missouri Meerschaum (by Sutliff): Taste of Temptation _ Missouri Meerschaum: Great Dane _ Sillem's: Red _ and this Peter Stokkebye's: PS3 Cherry. And I am awaiting a delivery of Cult: Blood Red Moon. Today I managed to try them all except for Great Dane and, of course, Blood Red Moon for not receiving it yet. *Update:* it's the following day. I've upgraded the rating from 1.5 to 3.5 Stars today. I currently prefer Sillem's: Red over this PS3 Cherry, but it is close. I like the Sillem's taste more, than PS3, but Sillem's: Red's flavor goes away sooner than PS3 Cherry. Also, PS3 Cherry is a bit more harsh than Sillem's; regarding bite...especially w/nasal bite. And this, done the day after, is while packing the bowl, and tamping, more lightly than yesterday. And while slowing down the pace. I do still have Taste of Temptation, Paladin, Great Dane, and Cobblestone Cherry Delight to try a second time.

Sillem's - Red 100g
I Do Not Like Cherry...or do I?
...if this is what Cherry flavored tobaccos are. Today was my "hey, let's try all of my Cherry Blends day." I recently started piping in mid January 2024. I've collected near 100 total blends since then. Of those, in the Cherry realm, I have: Cobblestone Indulge: Cherry Delight _ Paladin: Wild Cherry _ Missouri Meerschaum (by Sutliff): Taste of Temptation _ Missouri Meerschaum: Great Dane _ Sillem's: Red _ Peter Stokkebye: PS3 Cherry. And I am awaiting a delivery of Cult: Blood Red Moon. Today I managed to try them all except for Great Dane, and, of course, Blood Red Moon for not receiving it yet. The only one of these I can tolerate is PS3 Cherry. Mostly because the flavoring is subtle...I suppose. This one, Sillem's: Red, I nearly threw out both tins of it. I did throw out both tins of Cobblestone: Cherry Delight. This, and the others, I will give another try on some other day. It was a brutal day...the worst one of my short piping "era." You guys and your 4.79 Star average, I just reduced to 4.38, got me to try this. And after my taste buds recover from today's onslaught of brutality, I'll try this one and the others again. While trying to properly smoke these cherry aromatic blends correctly. And then edit my review accordingly, if deserved. *Update* it's the following morning. I had my morning 'T' blend with some coffee and a dash of Moonshine in it. I packed the bowl lightly, tamped lightly throughout the burn, and slowed my pace in order to try or appear to be enjoying Sillem's: Red. And....I did slightly enjoy it. Still not sure I would keep some on hand yet. So I did upgrade my Star rating from 1.5 to 3.5. And, so you l know, my Star ratings are: 1=nope, never again _ 2=tolerable, but not likely to order again _ 3=was OK, but I'm on the fence still; the fence being to keep some on hand (4 Star) or not (2 Star) _ 4=good enough to have or want some around for smoking time to time _ 5=gotta have it...daily. So today's 3.5 Star update is for being between "on the fence" and deciding to keep some on hand.

Missouri Meerschaum - Taste of Temptation 1.5oz
I Do Not Like Cherry...or do I?
...if this is what Cherry flavored tobaccos are. Today was my "hey, let's try all of my Cherry Blends day." I recently started piping in mid January 2024. I've collected near 100 blends since then. Of those, in the Cherry realm, I have: Cobblestone Indulge: Cherry Delight _ Paladin: Wild Cherry _ Missouri Meerschaum (by Sutliff): Taste of Temptation _ Missouri Meerschaum: Great Dane _ Sillem's: Red _ Peter Stokkebye: PS3 Cherry. And I am awaiting a delivery of Cult: Blood Red Moon. Today I managed to try them all except for Great Dane and, of course, Blood Red Moon for not receiving it yet. The only one of these I can tolerate is PS3 Cherry. Mostly because the flavoring is subtle...I suppose. This one, Taste of Temptation, I nearly threw out both tins of it. I did throw out one of two tins of Cobblestone: Cherry Delight. This blend, and the others, I will give another try on some other day. While trying to properly smoke these cherry aromatic blends correctly. Today was a brutal day...the worst one of my short piping era. *Update-some other day came today* Today I retried those I tried yesterday. And as of right now my Cherry blends rank as such: #1: Missouri Meerschaum-Great Dane (be leaps and hounds) _ #2: Sillem's: Red _ #3: PS3 Cherry _ #4: Taste of Temptation _ #5: Paladin-Black Cherry _ #6: Cobblestone-Cherry Delight. Cult-Blood Red Moon is yet to arrive. So I upgraded my 1.5 Star rating of yesterday to 3.0 today. Putting it on the fence; to buy or not to buy...again. Would've been a 3.5, but to enjoy it I had to hold my lips as though I was whistling. Place the pipe at 45° near the opening during the intake. Doing so delivered a mild chocolate taste with cherry on the back end. Any other breathe method produced only a tart tangy bite. I'll be trying these all again and again over the next few weeks. So we'll see if my Star rating goes ↑ or ↓ ... but for the price of T of T, I would take two pouches of Great Dane over this one any day.

Cobblestone - Indulge Cherry Delight 1.5oz
I do not like cherry...
...if this is what Cherry flavored tobaccos are. Today was my "hey, let's try all of my Cherry Blends day." I recently started piping in mid January 2024, I've collected near 100 blends since then. Of those, in the Cherry Realm, I have: Cobblestone Indulge: Cherry Delight _ Paladin: Wild Cherry _ Missouri Meerschaum (by Sutliff): Taste of Temptation _ Missouri Meerschaum: Great Dane _ Sillem's: Red _ Peter Stokkebye: PS3 Cherry. And I am awaiting a delivery of Cult: Blood Red Moon. Today I managed to try them all except for Great Dane, and, of course, Blood Red Moon for not receiving it yet. The only one of these I can tolerate is PS3 Cherry. Mostly because the flavoring is subtle...I suppose. This one, Cherry Delight, I've already thrown out one of two tins of it. But I will give the one remaining tin a second chance along with the others, some other day, and report.

Cornell & Diehl - Night Train 16oz
Not sure what everyone else is smoking, but...(*Updated*)
Not sure how this blend was, as described, 4 or more years ago when many of these reviews were entered. I ordered 1 lb in Jan 2024. It was dated Summer or Fall 2023. For me and my Star ratings...3 Stars is for those I found to be OK, but I am on the fence; on whether or not I would buy more of this. And 4 Stars is I will buy more to smoke from time to time. So, I've had three bowls of it today and all I get is a high level of something of a tart citrus taste; after about the first quarter or third of the bowl. The first 1/4 to 1/3 of the bowl is just straight tobacco taste...and I like it. Right now I only hope the rest I'm working on, loses the majority of its citrus taste over time. I expect to update this, when I do revisit this in the years to come. Anyhow, for now, I did give it 3.0 Stars. Only because I do like the first 1/4 to 1/3 of the bowl. Otherwise it would've been a 2.5★, or less, review from me. (*Update*) I finally got back to this and upgraded it from 3★ to 4★. Based off of the first bowl I would give it 4.5★; gladly. But then I discovered it requires a dedicated pipe (the first pipe; Savinelli 316KS...a Rossi 8316 may be just as good). Because the second bowl of this, in a different briar, tasted quite nasty. So nasty, that if I had only smoked this in that 'nasty' pipe, during this one-year-later revisit, I would only give it 1★ to 2★. So, I will run Night Train through all of the rest of my pipes, now, and note which pipe/s will be dedicated to Night Train. Because I really enjoyed that first bowl in the Savi-316. Also, it seems better when gravity fed and then applying just a light bit of pressure when needed.

Paladin - Black Cherry 7oz
Not really enjoying this blend...
I purchased five OTC/Codger blends for using up while all of the others I've collected get some age behind them. I have this Paladin _Velvet _ Granger _ Sir Walter Raleigh _ and Carter Hall. All of them are in Latch-Lock Ball jars, except for SWR (explained below). I must say that S.T.G. is not doing any of these OTC/Codger blends, they've acquired, any favors. Only Carter Hall is on my list to purchase again. I still have the majority of Paladin left. But each time it is on deck for filling a pipe, I find myself feeling some hesitation and regret. Velvet and Granger isn't so bad, but I wouldn't re-order them again. SWR got tossed out for tasting and smelling strongly of vinegar. The first partial, and only, bowl of SWR wrecked my taste buds for more than two days. SmokingPipes is aware of the SWR fermentation issue. One can only hope that S.T.G. never acquires Carter Hall.

Sutliff - Molto Dolce 1.5oz
I just couldn't wait to be rid of this blend...
I just couldn't wait to be rid of this blend...and I am finally done with it. I added the last of what I had of it to another 'hot' blend to mellow the other some. And was able to finish it all. Moving on now...

Carter Hall - Carter Hall 14oz
My favorite OTC-Codger blend...
Favorite of all OTC's I've tried in my 1.5 months of piping; that is. I recently grabbed five qt-size latch-lock jars, by Ball, for my tubs of OTC's; Carter Hall_Velvet_Granger_Paladin BC_and SWR got tossed for being fermented into a "vinegar w/Cream of Tartar" bomb; that ruined my taste buds for nearly two days. I'm probably going to replace SWR w/Captain Black. Anyhow, Carter Hall holds a firm lead over all of the other OTC blends I have. Cannot give it a five because there are so many other blends I find to be much better. If I were reviewing only Codger blends...it would get a five. But for me, with the star rating here, and considering all other blends; One is for "wish I hadn't experienced what I just did." Two is for "it was OK, I can deal with it, but not likely going to selectively re-order it again." Three is for "I'm on the fence; whether or not I will try it again. And whether or not, to add more of it to the collection. I'm 50/50 on this one at the moment." Four is for "definitely going to grab another tub/tin to have on hand." Five is for "most likely going to add this to nearly every order; because I gotta have it daily." *Update* I'm bumping my Star rating from 4.0 to 4.5 today. Because I just enjoy CH enough to do so. I do prefer CH in one of my clay pipes over a briar or cob though. Because CH really does shine when smoked in a clay. Likely due to the long stem of a clay has great moisture wicking ability; like a Brigham Rock Maple Distillator does.

Granger - Granger 7oz
Better when dried a bit.
I am new to piping, at just 1.5 months in. So I've been collecting numerous blends in that time...many I desire to age a good bit. So with that I picked up several 'Ball' qt.-size latch-lock jars for transferring tubs of OTC Codger blends I plan to smoke while giving the others time in a bottle. I have Granger_Carter Hall_ Velvet_Paladin in those latch jars now. Granger is currently my second favorite of those; second to Carter Hall. But I am still learning...and have discovered Granger, as with many other blends, is better when I spread some out to dry. Nearly to being crispy. It changes from having a bit much of a citrus tang to it, and minor 'bite,' to being a warm tasty treat with fantastic plumes and clouds. Carter Hall is one I will add more of to my collection...and if Granger gets added as well, then I will likely edit this to up it to a two or four star recruit. *Update* I am reducing my 3.5 to 3.0 stars and am currently leaning toward reducing 2.0 stars if I find Granger, after 7oz's, not enjoyable enough to consider buying it again. I must say that S.T.G.'s acquisition of all these OTC/Codger blends, are not doing them any favors. The S.T.G. is certainly not concerned enough for maintaining the quality of these blends they now own.

Newminster - No. 400 Superior Navy Flake
May be better later...after some time. *Updated*
I have this jarred for now. But I removed a bit to try fresh before putting the rest in a jar. I would likely update my three stars later when I get to work on the rest. Right now I'm on the three-star fence until trying some aged and then deciding if this is one I will reorder or pass on. With what I've tried, for it being fresh and no age on it, all I got was a bit of spice and a tiny bit of bite. With a slight hint of fruit or floral notes...truly cannot detect what it is just yet. *Update;* nearly a year has passed and not much changed with this. So...I stoved the remaining 8oz jar of this and it was more pleasant to smoke. I had it in the oven at 190°F for two hours...and am curious what it could be with three to four hours on it. It turned out to be more mellow, the bite went away, and I was able to just enjoy it. It quickly disappeared; so it got bumped from 3★ to 4★. Meaning, for me, it is now a blend I am likely to have on hand.

Sir Walter Raleigh - Regular 7oz
Unsmokeable...something wrong.
*Update: I just spoke with SP and they are aware of the problem w/Sir Walter Raleigh. So you might want to contact them before purchasing SWR and ask if they have remedied this(end/update).* Review: I just started piping a bit over 1.5 months ago. I recently picked up five 'Ball' - Latch-lock jars for five Codger blends I plan to use while numerous other blends are collected and aged. So I decided on and ordered: Velvet 7oz_Paladin 7oz_Granger 7oz_Carter Hall 14oz_and Sir Walter Raleigh 7oz. They arrived and I began the transfer process. The first I opened was SWR. I wanted to smell it and when I did, I was smacked in the face with a strong and nasty stench of vinegar. Causing me to pull away instantaneously. I put the tobacco into its jar,and in thinking I need to try and smoke a bowl; I quickly found this to be a big mistake. The taste was just as it smelled, vinegar and tart, but even more so. It was like a slurry of vinegar and cream of tartar in my mouth. I quickly dumped out the pipe. Unfortunately, the taste lasted and lingered in my mouth for more than 24 hrs. I wish I could give this a fair review, this 7oz tub of SWR; with nothing wrong with it. But I cannot do so at this time. In reviews I've heard and read people are detecting notes of: fruity_nutty_cocoa_even licorice. I got none of those....I got an overpowering tart-vinegar blast. Out of all of the blends I've gathered, and those I've opened, this has happened but one other time. It was a tin of SPC's Plum Pudding. But this SWR was even stronger; in both its smell and taste.

G. L. Pease - Chelsea Morning 2oz
Good from the first bowl
Just received my 2oz and 8oz tins. Opened up the two ounce tin yesterday and put it into a Mason. This morning I loaded the bowl, grabbed a cup of black coffee, and began. So for the review: the tin note was definitely English. The smoke was completely pleasing and the blend was unobtrusive. In that no leaf bullied the others...they all played well with each other. I can only think to say it is a perfect blend. I do think I'll try rubbing it down just a bit more, next time. It seems the tumbling process gets it close to being ready for the bowl, but not quite. I would recommend leaving a cleaner through the stem and into the bowl when packing. Only because my first bowl got itself plugged immediately from the loading. So after trying to find the hole in the bottom of the full bowl with the poker, and opening it up, I then enjoyed this blend right to the bottom. It made it immediately onto my "Re-order" list.

CAO - Eileen's Dream 50g
Pleasantly holds its flavor.
I changed this from 4.0 to 3.5 Stars because it nearly held its flavor throughout the bowl. But sometimes I get nothing from it. Also, so you know, my Star ratings are: 1 = I wish I hadn't experienced that one _ 2 = was tolerable, but never again _ 3 = was OK, but left me on the fence as to whether or not to buy more or not _ 4 = I like it and it is good enough to always have around to smoke from time to time _ 5 = I gotta have this every day. I have nothing to compare this blend to, but I was nearly about to order C&D's Nutty Irishman. But when going through the reviews for it, I saw one reviewer saying they preferred CAO's Eileen's Dream. So I instead got four tins of this. I might have rated this higher, but I tried my first bowl of it in the one pipe of mine I turn to the least. And still the flavor was lasting, and not bad at all. What I tasted was subtle, but I definitely detect mint throughout the bowl. But not overpowering mint...just present. A light but sweet cream came through during the first two thirds of the bowl. Accompanying the sweet cream, for the first two thirds, was something reminding me of dark chocolate. But the chocolate was shy. The Cavendish appears at about the last third or quarter of the bowl. And stands side by side with the mint. Not above or below it, just equal with it. And when the chocolate had left the scene. I detected nutty notes up in the first half, making me think "is there Burley in this?" But it wasn't lasting...only made a drive-by and waved. This was my first bowl; out of a fresh tin, dated May 2023...it is now Feb 2024. It seemed its moisture was just a bit in need of five to ten minutes of drying time, and then off I went. For me, giving 3.5 Stars (instead of four now) is because I am now in between me being on the fence of whether or not I would try it again and I like it and I would try it again. I still have two tins left. So obviously I will be smoking it again. But I do not expect to enjoy this more than what I get from it today. Which isn't much. So it will likely end up at 2 or 3 Stars. Just so many more enjoyable blends that fall well above this one.

Seattle Pipe Club - Plum Pudding 2oz
I don't get it?
I don't get it...is the best description I have for it. With a name like 'Plum Pudding' I expected to detect some flavor. Mine was dry and had only a strong vinegar tin note. In trying to be gentle when crumbling it, it still crumbles nearly to dust. When smoking it, I got nothing but the vinegar tin note for the first half of a bowl. Turning into a smokey bitterness. But it was mostly nothing more than a smokey mist of nothingness that I wish were gone. My first order also included the Amphora 5-Sampler pack, and the English Blend in that is even better than this Plum Pudding. I've tried this Plum Pudding in four different pipes now, in hopes one combination shows an improvement; including a Clay pipe. But it repeatedly gives me nothing to write home about. Sadly, before smoking the Plum Pudding for the first time, and based on reviews, I also ordered the SPC - Plum Pudding Special Reserve (awaiting delivery of it still). And I am now fearful it may also make it onto my "Never Again" list. I wouldn't recommend it, nor will I try it again. Did I simply get a bad portion of a batch in my 2 oz tin of slices? Because: "tasty, delicious, the best English, Plum flavor, too wet to stay lit, glorious, amazing, citrusy bouquet, and second to none (not true) is not what's in the tin that I received. If I had the tin I would send it back. Just to rid myself of it. *Edit*; on a hunch I phoned SmokingPipes and they said it shouldn't smell like that and they fixed it for me. So with that I understand what I received was plainly "not right." I do appreciate them at SmokingPipes; for their helpful customer service. One day, not far away, I'll try this blend again. In hopes I get a tin w/o fermentation issues...and reevaluate the star rating given today. *UPDATE* So I bumped my Star rating to near the average; in trusting those of you who didn't get a strong sour-vinegar tin of tobacco like I did. I bumped my rating up because SP took care of my bad tin, and I threw away my tin. But wanted to leave my review just to express my experience with it. I've yet got up the nerve to try another tin. But when I do, I will likely adjust my Star rating as I find necessary.

Amphora - Amphora Sampler
I tried it...and NOPE!
I ordered this along with my first pipe and tobacco order, thinking this might help me discover the path to take to find my personal favorite types of blends. Doing so did not help me at all. Instantly I knew three blends were not for me. But the English, my favorite of the five, and Virginia blends; not so bad, but not great either. So would I buy this 5-Pk Sampler again? Nope! And I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. I give it just 2 Stars; my rating for tobacco that is just OK...but I would never buy it again. For me to give this 3 Stars would be for "me being on the fence; whether or not to buy again." And I am firmly on the side of the fence that prevents me from buying it.

Old Dominion - Williamsburg Clay Pipe
Wow...if I'd only known.
I'm new to piping at age 61 yrs. In the past few weeks I've ordered more than two dozen pipes. This "Williamsburg" and "The Dutchman" are both great pipes. I would, now, always recommend a beginner to start with a Clay pipe. So to first learn pipe smoking before moving up to briars; so to build cake before burning up a new briar. Because if you can learn to smoke, a Clay pipe, cool enough to hold onto its bowl...you are 'then' ready to smoke from a briar. I highly recommend trying at least one; The Dutchman or the Williamsburg. I added near 1.5 inches of 5/16" (8mm) heat-shrink tube to the mouth pieces of each. Cleaning them is as easy as running it through a 2 hour self-clean cycle in your oven but first, and obviously, remove the heat-shrink tubing.