How is the flavor profile on the rustica? I always heard it had a harsh flavor but what notes and flavors do you pick up on it?
It is surprisingly mild in flavor. It it slightly itchy on the throat though, and if the leaves are darker then it is also a bit spicy
. Otherwise I find a hint of incense, nutty sweetness.
It does not burn very well, so mixed with another tobacco the burn characteristics improve. I have not experimented much with mixing, but mixed with an aromatic like Crème Brûlée it works very well. I plan to mix with other tobacco in the future to see how it does.
I don’t know if it is my batch, but I don’t feel the Nicotine too much. In comparison Gawith Hoggarth Dark Birds Eye seems stronger to me.
Or the Nicotine may be subtle and effect is slightly different than burley/DFK