GEO013

Reviews


Cornell & Diehl - Firebird Flake 2oz
Like a Visit with an Old Friend
Firebird Flake reminds me of one of my favorite smokes from some 26+ years ago: a Partagas cigar that just spoke a certain tobacco language to me that I thoroughly enjoyed, which thereby, somehow compels me to review this blend… Upon opening the tin, Firebird presents a wonderful smoky, spicy, and slightly vinegary note. The flakes’ moisture level is already perfect for rubbing out, and giving a pipe-full 15-20 minutes air time, as I like to do, sets me up for a fine smoking experience. This tobacco comes as advertised: a blend perfectly balanced between its principal components: the deep, “dark fruit” sweetness and touch of savory and breadiness of the Red Virginia leaf; the subtle spice yet fuller body of the Samsun, complimenting the nutty, spicy, sweet and sour character of the Izmir; and the charred woodiness and earthy quality of the Dark Fired. They compliment each other beautifully. These tobacco leaves clearly have some age on them. I would put Firebird Flake in the category of a “sipping tobacco;” however, it burns cool and maintains a nice tobacco flavor (which speaks to me) for just sitting back and letting your mind drift while letting loose plumes of smoke. I find everything about Firebird to be what I’ll call a solid medium in its flavor, depth, and nicotine profiles. Nothing comes through as heavy-handed, making it a 5 Star smoking experience in my book. If you’re a smoker of mild to medium-ish cigars and exploring the pipe, checkout Firebird Flake while its available. You just might find it to be like and old friend to you, too.

Dan Tobacco - The Mallard Flake Plus Perique 50g
An Honest VaPer
I picked up a tin of the Mallard Flake Plus Perique only because I wanted to top off my order with SmokingPipes.com for their free shipping :) and I do favor a few of Dan Tobacco's offerings. IMHO this is a good one. I find the flakes to be slightly moist and easy enough to rub out and pack into a bowl with little to no dry time. I pick up the typical hay and bread from the gold and brown Virginias along with a bit of hay-like and malty sweetness, perhaps a bit of spice as well, but not much in the way of citrus or grassy sweetness to my palate. The perique is definitely there in a supporting role with its touch of plum and spice. I find the smoke overall to be closer to medium than mild in flavor and nicotine throughout the bowl. Leaves a pleasantly honest Virginia tobacco aftertaste. The room note is not strong but scent-wise falls into the "tolerable" category. An enjoyable smoke. Recommended if you happen to be in the market for another VaPer blend.

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