This is officially being released today, and since I was the first person in the U.S. to taste test it, I get to post the first review.
The hot pressed flake breaks apart very easily though it needs to dry a few minutes first. It's creamy and smooth, and easy to keep lit. The Orientals have a nice spice flavor that isn't too strong, just right, and gets slightly more noticeable when you reach the half way point in the bowl. It's a tad sweeter than your average English, and I wonder if there's a touch of black cavendish in it, or is it just a very mild casing. I know there's no topping. There's an ample amount of Cyprian latakia without being overwhelming, providing a woodsy, smokey sweet flavor. The bright Virginias have a natural sweetness, and a very mild grass note as the core base for the other components to play off. The burleys are mildly sweet and nutty with a touch of earthiness. The flavor is consistent from first light to last puff with a very pleasing after taste. The rich complexity of this flake entertains the taste buds, and should appeal to aficionados of English blends who are looking for more than a dry smoke.
The hot pressed flake breaks apart very easily though it needs to dry a few minutes first. It's creamy and smooth, and easy to keep lit. The Orientals have a nice spice flavor that isn't too strong, just right, and gets slightly more noticeable when you reach the half way point in the bowl. It's a tad sweeter than your average English, and I wonder if there's a touch of black cavendish in it, or is it just a very mild casing. I know there's no topping. There's an ample amount of Cyprian latakia without being overwhelming, providing a woodsy, smokey sweet flavor. The bright Virginias have a natural sweetness, and a very mild grass note as the core base for the other components to play off. The burleys are mildly sweet and nutty with a touch of earthiness. The flavor is consistent from first light to last puff with a very pleasing after taste. The rich complexity of this flake entertains the taste buds, and should appeal to aficionados of English blends who are looking for more than a dry smoke.
