Oriental / English Tobacco » Dan Tobacco Bill Bailey's Balkan Blend Tobacco Reviews

Not a classic Balkan, but...

When I first met this blend, at Dan Tobacco's in-house store, I basically thought "what the f****?!?!"--I had never met any blend so Latakia-forward before; by now I know there are a few others of its kind.

The tin note, then, is rather smoky. To say the least. The leaf is dark to black, with a few bright spots from the VA included. It's a medium cut; no long ribbons nor wide squares, and stuffs easily and takes to the match readily.

The taste is salty and smoky, just what I expect of a Latakia bomb. Throughout the bowl, the Orientals add some gentle spice and the VA gives just a tad of sweetness... this is Man Stuff. And I feel slightly humbled by knowing a Lady Pipester who lists this as her favourite smoke.

At approx. 40 % Latakia, you should know what you are in for. This blend is not actually all that strong in nicotine; just very good Latakia with very good orientals and VA. What can I say? Not a Beginner's choice... but if you like a good Latakia hit, this is a good choice, especially if you also like the classic English and Balkan blends. I normally have nothing but ashes left in my pipes with no condensation; as far as smoking this blend goes it is as easy to handle as it gets.

And I do happen to love that Lat hit...