This was ordered in a 1oz taster sampler that I purchased from smokingpipes.com. I had heard raves rumblings about it on here, and I figured that I would send for a sampler, along with other blends to try out. I am a huge fan of Virgina/Burleys, and was eager to get this started.
The raw aroma of the bag/tin was just as I read; smells of ketchup and BBQ sauce, and a hint of worcestershire. This mainly due to the vinegar used in the process of the tobacco blend. It smells absolutely wonderful, and it did not put me off at all. The bulk option was ready-rubbed, and I began to pack my small Alpha prince.
I would not call this a VaBur blend. It is more like a Burlinia, as the Burley is very dominant. It has the essence of a strong cigar, with a slight hint of the sweet Virginia. Unfortunately, for me, I suppose the Burley is too overpowering. I don't mind a bit of Burley for a kick of nic and to bring an earthiness to a blend, but for me it was not to my satisfaction or taste.
Be that as it may, what it sets out to do, it does accomplish quite well, as the vast positive reviews can attest to. I have read that Burleys do not cellar/age that well, and that if one were to cellar this, then the Virginias would get stronger. For me, this might make it more palatable, however, it may also ruin the blend. I am unsure. I know that I will jar it away in the cellar and try it again down the line.
If you love cigars or Burley-heavy blends, then this is a good blend and I heartily recommend it. However, if, like me, you are not quite sure, see if someone here can send you a small sample to try out, or maybe your local B&M will give you a bowl.
The raw aroma of the bag/tin was just as I read; smells of ketchup and BBQ sauce, and a hint of worcestershire. This mainly due to the vinegar used in the process of the tobacco blend. It smells absolutely wonderful, and it did not put me off at all. The bulk option was ready-rubbed, and I began to pack my small Alpha prince.
I would not call this a VaBur blend. It is more like a Burlinia, as the Burley is very dominant. It has the essence of a strong cigar, with a slight hint of the sweet Virginia. Unfortunately, for me, I suppose the Burley is too overpowering. I don't mind a bit of Burley for a kick of nic and to bring an earthiness to a blend, but for me it was not to my satisfaction or taste.
Be that as it may, what it sets out to do, it does accomplish quite well, as the vast positive reviews can attest to. I have read that Burleys do not cellar/age that well, and that if one were to cellar this, then the Virginias would get stronger. For me, this might make it more palatable, however, it may also ruin the blend. I am unsure. I know that I will jar it away in the cellar and try it again down the line.
If you love cigars or Burley-heavy blends, then this is a good blend and I heartily recommend it. However, if, like me, you are not quite sure, see if someone here can send you a small sample to try out, or maybe your local B&M will give you a bowl.