While I love the complexity of a crafted blend containing nearly unpronouncable small-leaf Orientals, shreds of Latakia, Va's from every continent, and a touch of Perique; there is something to be said for the straight-forward rich nuttyness an OTC burley blend can provide. With all the different types of cuts, cakes, plugs and flakes, sometimes its nice to reach for a pouch of simple fine ribbon which requires no fuss, and of course, the burning properties of the OTC's are exquisite (well, what I've smoked at least; although I grant you, I haven't reached for any of the OTC aro's). In some ways, stoking a bowl of Carter Hall or Prince Albert (or, more likely my OTC choice, Amphora OB) seems like a connection with my relatives who puffed a pipe in the past. While OTC's wont completely replace my fancy tins bearing exotic names and even more exotic tobaccos, they will always have a place in my rotation...even if it only comes up once every few days.
Now if you'll excuse me, I've got a sudden hankering for some burley. I think I'll even smoke it from a cob. Guess that explains why my tie chafes at my neck... :P