Jonathan P.
Badges

Cornell & Diehl - Sun Bear Bourbon Cask 2oz
Sun bear fan
Out of all the “small batches” I particularly enjoy the Sun Bear line up- This year - I’m enjoying it as well … The Virginias provide a naturally sweet foundation, while the Orientals add just enough floral spice and complexity. Perhaps a small honey essence- but not as much as the Navy Cask. After trying various pipe sizes the tobacco prefers to be smoked in a smaller chamber - For me personally I enjoy this blend. The blend passes the test and one tin has been sent to my retirement cellar where it will wait until I leave my job …

Cornell & Diehl - Berry Good 8oz
Boozy aromatic
Based on the reviews I balked at buying this blend. I saw it at a brick and mortar and decided on giving it a try. For me this is above an easy boozy tasting blend. If you are a fan of Royal Comfort- it’s sits in the same wheelhouse of flavors. It’s an all day, pleasant, not overpowering, smooth tasting tobacco. It’s definitely more of a beginner blend but I find it enjoyable when I’m looking for something easy to smoke on my commute home from work. Perfect smoke to wind down after a big meal.

Cornell & Diehl - Midnight Orchard 2oz
Jury still out
Three bowls in and I can’t decide whether this is a worthwhile blend …it’s decent but underwhelming considering the hype. Compared to other small batch releases- it’s no sun bear which I loved the navy cask. This starts out with a great flavor but 3/4 in it goes somewhat flat ..toward the end it has a comeback with hint of orange spice .. It’s good ..but doesn’t yet hit move to a “must try” quite yet. Perhaps age with enhance the blend ..not sure

Cornell & Diehl - Bijou 2oz
Unbelievable blend
Bijou is an absolute standout easily a 5-star blend in my book. From the first bowl, it delivers a rich, refined experience that feels both classic and special. Fresh out of the tin, the flavors are beautifully balanced: deep, slightly sweet Virginias with a subtle complexity that keeps you engaged the entire smoke. There’s a smoothness and elegance to it that makes it enjoyable right now, without needing any age to shine. That said, what makes Bijou truly exciting is its potential. Even as good as it is fresh, you can tell it’s built for the long game. The depth is already there, but you just know time is going to round it out, deepen the sweetness, and bring even more complexity to the forefront. Because of that, the rest of my tin is heading straight into the cellar. This is the kind of blend worth saving something to look forward to years down the road. When retirement comes, cracking this open again will be more than just a smoke…it’ll be a reward.

McConnell - Ready Rubbed 50g
Reminds me of Dunhill Ready Rubbed
McConnell Ready Rubbed is a smooth, no-nonsense blend that delivers a classic, slightly sweet and nutty flavor with just the right touch of natural tobacco richness. It burns evenly, packs easily, and stays consistent from first light to finish making it an easy daily go-to for a relaxed, satisfying smoke