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The temperature is steadily rising here in the southeastern US, and with it, across the office, the usual aromas of our typical cold-weather smokes are slowly evolving into a melange of sweet, delicious clouds. Naturally, this got me wondering: What tobacco says 'summer' to you? As for winter, that one's usually easy: personally, the cold months usually merit a dark Virginia or dark strong Kentucky flake, though others gravitate toward Latakia and Oriental-centric blends. But what of summer, then? Lots of folks tend to reach in their humidor for a good cigar, of which I can surely see the appeal.
However, there's really nothing like sticking a couple trusty briars into a pipe case with a blend or two and heading down to the beach for a few hours. For me, and quite a few of us here, that blend is usually a nice Virginia or Virginia/Perique flake. This year, though, I made a pact with myself to maintain at least a little variation, so I made a small list of some blends I've been reaching for over the last few weeks, as the mercury's been rising (though I couldn't help throwing at least a few Virginia flakes in there for good measure).
Cornell & Diehl's Bayou Morning - There's nothing like a Virginia/Perique blend in the morning, and Bayou Morning delivers with notes of figgy chocolate — a fine companion for your morning coffee.
Samuel Gawith's Spring Time Flake - Samuel Gawith's English Summer is definitely excellent, but these Virginia/Perique flakes, matured in old sherry barrels, offer just enough subtle sweetness and light spice to really satisfy on hot summer's day.
Astley's no 109 - A pleasant, mild Virginia flake, with a slight, sweet note. Just mellow enough to sip on a seaside stroll.
Low Country Guendalose - This new blend from Low Country makes the afternoon doldrums seem like a lazy Sunday, with sweet, earthy notes and a rich, cigar-like spice.
BWI Bacon Old Fashioned - Smoky, citrusy, and a bit of bourbon booziness; this blend from BriarWorks International strikes all the right chords for a warm summer's night.
You might notice I ordered these according to the time of day I might reach for it, but feel free to experiment. And make sure to use our Tobacco Locator to come up with your own, unique summer blend rotation!
Tagged in: Astley's BriarWorks Cornell and Diehl Low Country Samuel Gawith Tobacco
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Comments
I really enjoy your blog and look forward to the tobacco suggestions. Thanks very much!
@Joe Thornton And we're always glad to help Joe!
What pipe is featured in the photo at the top? It looks like an excellent pocket pipe.
Tim- That's a Peterson Tankard! Makes for a great VA/Per smoker, too.
I noticed that you have good taste when it comes to snuff also.
Haven't tried that one but I have a good 2 dozen of Daniels creations and IMO Old Mill is the finest snuff produced today.