I used to be completely turned off by straight Va's or Va forward blends, but in recent months I've decided to really give them a chance. The first Va I smoked and actually liked was McClelland 221b Black Shag. It really got me thinking that I might actually find a few Va's that I could enjoy. I also used to be somewhat opposed to flakes in their various forms, but decided to give them a chance as well. The first flake I tried that I actually liked was Peterson University Flake, though it took several bowls before I really started to enjoy it.
Since beginning my endeavor to give Va's and flakes a chance, I've found quite a few that I really enjoy! I've developed a fondness for Mac Baren blends such as Navy Flake, Roll Cake, and Dark Twist as well as other Mac Barens in general. I've also taken a liking to McClelland blends such as Deep Hollow and Navy Cavendish Flake.
What spurred me to write this post was this mornings smoke, 2013 Christmas Cheer.
My wife got it for me for Christmas! I read that it's best to let it sit for a week or so after opening before you smoke it, so I jarred it the day I got it. Well, I finally smoked my first bowl this morning and all I can say is this stuff is really really good! It's probably the best Va I've had so far, and I can only imagine how good it will be with some real age on it!
Needless to say, I'm definitely becoming a Va and flake fan!
Since beginning my endeavor to give Va's and flakes a chance, I've found quite a few that I really enjoy! I've developed a fondness for Mac Baren blends such as Navy Flake, Roll Cake, and Dark Twist as well as other Mac Barens in general. I've also taken a liking to McClelland blends such as Deep Hollow and Navy Cavendish Flake.
What spurred me to write this post was this mornings smoke, 2013 Christmas Cheer.
My wife got it for me for Christmas! I read that it's best to let it sit for a week or so after opening before you smoke it, so I jarred it the day I got it. Well, I finally smoked my first bowl this morning and all I can say is this stuff is really really good! It's probably the best Va I've had so far, and I can only imagine how good it will be with some real age on it!
Needless to say, I'm definitely becoming a Va and flake fan!