I walked into my local B&M during my lunch break today. Surprisingly, they appeared to be fully stocked with both Samuel Gawith and Esoterica. 5 minutes later, I casually strolled out with some FVF and Best Brown, and a Davidoff cigar. I wasn't accosted, harassed, or interrogated on my intended use of said tobacco's. Was just asked, "how many ya want"? Wasn't even mugged in the parking lot for my ill gotten gains. Sigh, so disappointing.
Being new to the pipe world, I was rather taken aback by the whole hording discussion. From all I have read, it is generally acknowledged that many blends get better with age. Why would it then be surprising for someone to buy multiple tins at a time so that they could enjoy some now, and some later? Why is it acceptable to buy a case of wine (encouraged even), to then age it slowly, and coax it into it's full glory, sampling its progress along the way, (referred to, I believe as cellaring). But for some reason is looked upon by some as an evil act if instead of a case of wine, one buys a dozen tins or a few pounds of a favored leaf? There are similar scarcities in the wine market for particular vintners or especial years, but no one decries "hording!" if they were too slow to purchase. Instead, you find a buddy who was lucky to score some of said sought after nectar and invite them to dinner, and hope to share the bounty during a relaxing repast.
I have opened the tin of Best Brown to enjoy, and have secreted away the FVF, to mature into it's full glory.
Full glasses and dry bowls my friends!