Summary: a smooth Latakia-oriented English using matured Virginias for more of a grain-like flavor than the usual sweet tangy taste.
Like its cousin "Margate," Esoterica "Penzance" takes the medium English formula to new levels of smoothness by tempering the extremes of its ingredients. In particular, the Virginias used here appear aged or pressed or otherwise reduced in acidity, and the Latakia has been restrained from its pine-smoke extremes. Together, these ingredients give this tobacco a solid middle band presence and allow the Orientals to crest to the top, creating a delightfully mellow smoke. If you ever wanted Dunhill "Standard Mixture" to have less zing and more cream, this is the blend to do it.
Thanks to Pipes Magazine forum member "shikano53" for this generous sample.
Similar Blends: Dunhill - Standard Mixture, Esoterica Tobacciana - Margate.
http://www.tobaccoreviews.com/blend/498#review84017