The dark fired Kentucky is the star. Perhaps it's a little less spicy than some grades of DFK, but it has enough to satisfy the desire for it. It's very earthy, a little nutty, with a hint of sweet molasses. The red Virginia is tangy, earthy sweet with a touch of fruit, and is a nice supporting player. The bright flue cured Virginia offers a mild citrus and a milder grass note. Experienced smokers will notice that the processing melds the tobaccos so that you always notice the individual components, which undergo a little fermentation. Not as complex as it seems because the Kentucky does at times overshadow the other tobaccos, but it burns smoother than many blends with this high a percentage of Kentucky. As it is sold in plug form, it seems to be just a little sweeter and tangier because of fermentation than the ready rubbed version, but it’s not a night and day difference. Takes time to cut and prepare it to what ever your preference is, and may need a little dry time. It burns very slowly, requiring a number of relights. Leaves no real dottle, though you will have to stir up the bottom a bit to burn it all up. Leaves a little moisture which the ready rubbed version barely does.
