Edward Z.
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Cornell & Diehl - Sun Bear Bourbon Cask 2oz
A very unique blend with a nice surprise
One of C&Ds limited blends, this Sun Bear Bourbon Cask is a very pleasant smoke. Upon opening the tin the virginias stand out along with a nice sweetness. Once rubbed and packed the lighting brings about a very nice draw. The virginias are quite evident along with an extra sweetness which if you take it very slow you can taste a bourbon honey mix. Its very subtle but tasty. The surprise is the oriental incense signature that really shows itself in a retrohale and room note. You can definitely smell the sweetness. Overall for a fresh lighting its very flavorful. Its not going to knock your socks off but if you're looking for a pleasant not overwhelming smoke, especially on a warm day this is a very pleasing smoke. Nicely done. With age it can only get better.

Cornell & Diehl - Midnight Orchard 2oz
A light but tasty aromatic
Upon opening the tin I was greeted with the pleasant aroma of fruitcake. Somewhat sweet, a touch of hay but with a pleasant note of citrus. The virginias are present but not overpowering. The perique is very, very subtle. Once I packed the bowl I gave my pipe a prelight draw. Amazing as it tasted like “Constant Comment” a tea with orange infused. Once lit the draw was exceptional but not overpowering. The blend of virginias are certainly there and theres a hint of orange citrus but way back in the flavor was apple. Where’d that come from? I really didn’t find the earthy tones some mention. The room note and this is probably why its an acceptable aromatic was almost non existent. I found that amazing as its crowd friendly. It’s perfect for a hot day when you want a lighter smoke and theres others around. If you like a heavy tobacco blend this isn’t it. It is another great blend from C&D.

Samuel Gawith - Squadron Leader 8oz
A true old school English
One of the quintessential English blends. Not heavy in one leaf, the triumvirate comprised of virginia, oriental and latakia deliver a smooth, flavorful smoke where the latakia is there but not overpowering. It delivers everything one would expect from an old school English. The tin note is naturally campfire thanks to the latakia. Upon lighting, Squadron Leader will indulge your senses with everything you would expect from a well blended English yet its not harsh in any way. Ive had the opportunity to try an old tin and found it so enjoyable that I purchased a pound to age. If you're looking for a latakia knockout, this is not it. If you want an English where you can really experience the orientals, this is it. An excellent blend.

Cornell & Diehl - Good Morning 2oz
Interesting but not EMP
Im not sure what blend this refers to in comparison but its not EMP. This is a light English that leads with virginias as the citrus and hay takes the lead. Its not until a few good puffs in that the orientals show up. The latakia is a hint, unfortunately, as it needs a good kick. Its a clean smoke, light in aroma and room note. Its a pleasant, light way to start the day.

G. L. Pease - Westminster 2oz
A perfect English
If theres one English you must try especially if you’re just looking to get into an English blend, Westminster is a must. The basic components, Latakia, oriental and virginia provide for a pleasant but not overpowering smoke. This one is highly respectable towards your senses. It’s mild compared to many other English blends but it lends itself to being a great first smoke of the day.

G. L. Pease - Samarra 2oz
A va/per worth your time.
I love a good va/per and this was recommended to me and it’s incredible. Virginias, perique with turkish and latakia, it goes beyond a va/per but the flavor and richness is one to be experienced. It has the va/per flavors but has even more in its complexity which is what makes it a standout blend. Excellent !

G. L. Pease - Maltese Falcon 8oz
A fantastic English
If you’re looking to try the quintessential in English flavor you cant go wrong with Maltese Falcon. Falling in the medium strength category this is a rich blend which delivers the finest attributes of what an English should be. This is not overpowering with latakia but it melds nicely with the other leaf. With a touch of sweetness and flavor throughout the bowl this could easily become you favorite all day smoke.

G. L. Pease - Chelsea Morning 2oz
A great anytime blend
Consisting of Virginia, Latakia, Perique, Orientals, the Latakia is not overpowering and the perique is truly subtle. A rich smoke with a very refined flavor when compared to Petersons Early Morning Pipe. If you enjoy EMP you will love this as it is a step above in smoothness and flavor. Strength is medium but its quite delicious and pairs comfortably with coffee or tea.

Cornell & Diehl - Green River Vanilla 2oz
Wet
I found this to be horribly lacking both in flavor and smokability. Overall the tobacco was uite moist requiring a decent drying time. Once lit, lt crackled and required the more than usual relights. In as much as there is some tobacco flavor present the vanilla is non existent. The tin note is pronounced but it doesn’t carry over to the smoke. The room not is of weak tobacco. It left my pipe a dripping mess. This is better used as a blender, if that.
The Christmas Chimney Fire
  • ► The ‘60s were a much better time. It’s grand to read a story such as this. Happy Holidays to all !