Mr. Pease's blends receive a lot of attention in the pipe community. Rightfully so, according to word-of-mouth and enough positive written reviews to choke an elephant. However, a blend I haven't noticed much mention of is Cumberland. This is the second blend I've had the pleasure to light up from the Pease stable (the other being Fillmore).
This blend is comprised of red virginias, perique and Kentucky. Now here's what piqued my interest: according to the tin description, the Kentucky leaf in this blend was aged in bales for 20 years. Now, im a sucker for age-statements. Probably a hold over from my other obsession, single malt scotch. So I ordered this blend without any further research. Didn't read any reviews, didn't ask anyone about it, just a pure impulse buy. So far, I'm glad I did.
The tin came in the mail today, and without hesitation cracked her open. I was a bit alarmed at the moisture level. As in, it is definitely on the dry side. I was greeted by coarse cut, reddish brown leaves, and a wonderful musty leathery aroma with a slight sweetness hiding in the background. So, full-steam ahead!
I loaded my Peterson Donegal 80s, and lit her up. Despite how dry it is, I had a bit of trouble keeping the bowl lit. Eventually I settled into a good groove and was able to savor and enjoy. The Virginia and Kentucky combine to create this excellent dry woodsy flavor with some vibrant grassy notes peeking through. The perique does its' part as well lending that famous peppery spice to liven things up. I should also mention the almost creamy feel of the smoke, definitely not what I was expecting, but very welcome. The flavors swapped back and forth throughout till nothing but ash was left.
As a nicotine lightweight I certainly felt the effects of this one, but I wasn't overwhelmed. Im very pleased with this blend. I think it would be excellent for a nice tromp through the woods, or some other outdoorsy excursion. Its too bad there isn't more mention of Cumberland, but maybe those who've tried it are keeping the secret to themselves? Not me. Try this blend!
This blend is comprised of red virginias, perique and Kentucky. Now here's what piqued my interest: according to the tin description, the Kentucky leaf in this blend was aged in bales for 20 years. Now, im a sucker for age-statements. Probably a hold over from my other obsession, single malt scotch. So I ordered this blend without any further research. Didn't read any reviews, didn't ask anyone about it, just a pure impulse buy. So far, I'm glad I did.
The tin came in the mail today, and without hesitation cracked her open. I was a bit alarmed at the moisture level. As in, it is definitely on the dry side. I was greeted by coarse cut, reddish brown leaves, and a wonderful musty leathery aroma with a slight sweetness hiding in the background. So, full-steam ahead!
I loaded my Peterson Donegal 80s, and lit her up. Despite how dry it is, I had a bit of trouble keeping the bowl lit. Eventually I settled into a good groove and was able to savor and enjoy. The Virginia and Kentucky combine to create this excellent dry woodsy flavor with some vibrant grassy notes peeking through. The perique does its' part as well lending that famous peppery spice to liven things up. I should also mention the almost creamy feel of the smoke, definitely not what I was expecting, but very welcome. The flavors swapped back and forth throughout till nothing but ash was left.
As a nicotine lightweight I certainly felt the effects of this one, but I wasn't overwhelmed. Im very pleased with this blend. I think it would be excellent for a nice tromp through the woods, or some other outdoorsy excursion. Its too bad there isn't more mention of Cumberland, but maybe those who've tried it are keeping the secret to themselves? Not me. Try this blend!
