I am usually fond of the contrast, particularly by the more skilled artisans whose pipes I've yet to commit to buying but hope to someday own. My focus has been much more cellar driven lately (thanks war on tobacco).
I definitely get that popcorn taste too. The thick cut version would be my daily smoke if I were not always trying new blends still.
Maybe someday I'll tighten up my rotation? At this pace maybe by year ten?
I don't remember where I put my Elizabethan, but I think I liked it. I love Flake and Royal Yacht though and feel fortunate to get them back. If only my TAD budget would accumulate I'd get some.
Keep it up! I picked up the pipe around the same time I got sober. God, AA, sponsorship, my wife and TAD/PAD have made my 2 years of sobriety far better than my years of drinking.