Joseph L.
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Arango - Balkan Supreme
I expected more
Granted, this is the first Balkan I have tried, and it may be that it is just not for me. I love C&D Mountain Camp and G. L. Peace Quiet Nights, both really good Lat forward English blends. And, with this blend I expected the Latakia to be in support of the oriental. But I just can't seem to get much flavor out of this blend. I tried it based on the reviews and am a little disappointed. The tin note is a smokey, campfire type note of an english blend, but the flavor is just not there for me. Could be that I'm just a Lata-phile with no hope of really loving anything else.

Molina - Shorty Brown (MO1) (9mm)
A very nice little pipe
This pipe is a great smoker. It is small enough to fit in a pocket, light enough to clinch between the teeth, and has a large enough chamber to hold a decent amount of tobacco. Also, it's a good looking pipe for a small price.

Mac Baren - HH Pure Virginia 1.75oz
Sweet and nutty. Excellent morning smoke.
The tin note smells of molasses-nice and sweet. I get notes of mild sweetness and toasted nuts. I like my English, but this is a nice, light, easy change of pace for mornings.

A&C Petersen - Escudo Navy Deluxe 50g
Decent, but left something to be desired
I feel that this blend, while good, leaves me wanting more. The perique gives me the spice, but the other flavor notes (grass, fruit, bread, etc) are somewhat subdued. I like it, but I don't love it.

Cornell & Diehl - Star of the East
A solid English Blend
The Latakia is upfront with campfire-like smokey notes. The Turkish leaf tickles my nose. The Virginia gives it a touch of sweetness. I get some citrus notes towards the end of the bowl...a very satisfying smoke. This blend will definitely be a part of my rotation.

Cornell & Diehl - Mountain Camp
Lush, velvety smooth smoke
Honestly, after a few puffs I thought, meh. But within 3 to 5 minutes, the flavors just exploded! Sweet, sour, fruity, spicy, smokey...a plethora of flavor notes bombarding the senses. And the amount of thick, velvety smoke is outstanding. I simply will not be without it.

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