Rich Ireland here - Now living in Fernandina Beach Florida after 40+ years in WV. Born in Jersey. I have been and remain a cigar smoker. I tried smoking a pipe a few years back with no research or "Elmer" < (ham radio speak for a mentor) to get me started. I purchased a Grabow savoy and a Miz corn cob for this venture. Some Borkhum Riff and was on my way. I knew nothing and of course, failed. While moving to Florida, I found my old pipes and and thought with the great weather here, I should try to add to my outdoor smoking and bourbon ritual. This time though, I did some research. Talked my old cigar tobacconist back in WV (Shout out to The Squire in Charleston) who walked me through the tobacco basics and even gave me samples. I purchased a decent Rattray thistle pipe from him because I liked the way it looked and felt. It's all coming together now. Having been through "aficionado training" before with craft beer, cigars and whiskey - I am ready and well- on-my-way to a new relaxing passion. I am exploring as many blends as I can to see what clicks for me. Still all the while, breaking in new pipes. I have added Savinelli, Peterson, Winslow and waiting for my first Castello. I also purchased a crafted pipe from Papa-Bear which is beautiful. I think having been very technically involved in the brewing industry as a writer and a National Beer Judge, my palate is amenable to a wide range of flavors and intensities which is both a blessing and a curse 
.
.
