Forum member clickklick was kind enough to send me a sample of the 1996 vintage of McCrannie's Red Ribbon which I was very happy to receive being a fan of RR. The appearance of this vintage was a little rougher in cut than the 2008 which I have come to know and love and also darker although I assume that is due to aging. I loaded into my Chacom Maya Zulu and had a nice enjoyable smoke. The classic red Virginia flavors are all there but this bowl was the very definition of smooth and delicate. The vinegar and acidity are there but very mellow and danced in and out as I smoked. Lemon citrus notes along with a pronounced sweetness were the dominant impressions but a myriad of other hints of wood, hay and earthy leather presented at times. There was an overall creaminess and hints of vanilla. Surprisingly, I feel the blend may have mellowed a bit too much as it lacks a bit of oomph of newer vintages. Of course this part is purely subjective and the bowl was delicious. A big thanks to clickklick for the opportunity to try this.
