Shane Ireland

I've long been a fan of both Vladimir Grechukhin and Jeff Grecik of J. Alan pipes. The two makers have worked together several times over the last few years as part of Grechukhin's International Project, an open collaboration in which the Russian Master invites other master carvers to his shop to make pipes together. ... Read More

I waited a long time to try Brigade Campaign. It was a few years ago when the blend was rarely available due to the cult following it had gained. When I finally got my hands on a tin, I wasn't disappointed. Experienced Virginia smokers are likely to fall in love immediately ... Read More

Earlier this year while Sykes and I were at the Savinelli factory in Italy, a new shape was being designed, but not all the details were worked out yet. Sykes and I were able to brainstorm and collaborate with the Production Manager and the rest of the team at Savinelli, and the 311KS is the result. ... Read More

Brad Pohlmann has been a staple in American pipe making since he returned to the craft in 2003. He has a loyal following of collectors and continues to rank high on the "most desirable" lists among the newer generation of pipe smokers and enthusiasts. ... Read More

I'm pleased to see another flake being added to Savinelli's line of tobaccos, after last year's introduction of the decadent Brunello Flake. And this new blend has arrived just in time for the colder months, which is fortunate because Giubileo d'Oro flake is an impeccably-blended, all-day English ... Read More

Dan Tobacco's Salty Dogs was released in Europe last summer, and we first encountered the blend during this year's IPCPR in New Orleans. I immediately knew that this hearty plug of Virginia and Perique would satisfy my desire for bold flavor and medium-full strength.

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Few things are more exciting in the world of pipe tobacco than a new blend by G. L. Pease. The Virginia Cream is a bit of a departure for Greg, but if there's anyone who call pull off an Aromatic blend that also features some excellent tobacco flavors to go along with the inherent sweetness and luscious room note, Greg can. ... Read More

The new HH Pure Virginia delivers exactly what the name promises: honest, and unadulterated tobacco taste. I've been incredibly excited about this blend since I tried a few bowls during IPCPR a few months ago.

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Opening my tin of Golden Days of Yore instantly put me in the Christmas spirit. The aroma of eggnog, gingerbread immediately had me feeling homesick and left me longing for the winter months. Right from the first light you'll be able to tell that this is a special blend indeed. ... Read More

Earlier this year Sykes and I made our way to the Savinelli factory in Barasso. This trip was of particular interest to me personally because it was the first time that I'd been able to see pipe production on such a large scale. I've been fortunate enough to see a number of small workshops and artisanal studios ... Read More