Loading ...Having previously written about my approach to blending, I realized that bringing information about different tobacco types to light might be useful, so here is a very basic guide to some of the varieties you’ll commonly find.
Virginia- One of the most important of all blending components, Virginia is high in sugar and low in oils, which explains its flavor, and the fact that it can burn rather hot. Virginia ranges from bright lemon yellow to medium brown, with the lighter colors leaning toward a spicier flavor, and the darker colors having deeper, more complex taste. Virginias are used in almost any type of blend.
Burley- An important tobacco, especially in American blends, and in many Cavendishes. It is high in oil, and low in sugar (the opposite of Virginia), and tends to burn coolly, and has a nutty type of flavor. Since the smoke produced is more alkaline, burley can lead to tongue bite. When cased (flavored), the added sugar can reduce the likelihood of bite. Since the flavor is more neutral, Burley accepts flavorings well.
Carolina- Similar in character to Virginia, but not as rich in flavor, Carolina can be important as a way to “dilute” a blend without changing its character.
Maryland- Another rather neutral tobacco used in a number of American blends, it is extremely mild, which explains its broad use in cigarette tobacco. It is very useful in Burley blends when one wishes to reduce the sometimes heavy nuttiness.
Orientals or Turkish- This is actually a rather broad category of different tobaccos. Among these tobaccos are ones named Yenidje, Basma, Dubeck, Bashi Bagli, Smyrna, Xanthia along with many others. They are typically high in sugar, and rather fragrant. They are very important in English, Balkan and (of course) Oriental blends. They are also highly prized for enriching cigarette blends.
Cigar leaf- There are a great many types of tobacco used primarily for cigars that are also, sometimes, used in pipe tobacco. Some of the more frequently used are Connecticut Broadleaf and Cuban-Seed varietals. They add richness, a bit of sweetness and/or some spice.
Latakia- Latakia is not a tobacco in and of itself, but a processed version of other tobaccos. In Syria, a tobacco called Shek-Al-Bint is used, whereas in Cyprus, the normally used tobacco is Smyrna. The leaves are hung in huts with fires burning on the floor. In Syria, the fires are fed with Syrian Oak and Pine. In Cyprus, Yew, Pine and Juniper, among others are burned. Over a period of time, the smoke saturates the tobacco, turning it black, and lending a distinct taste and aroma. Syrian Latakia is complex, but somewhat delicate in flavor and room note; whereas Cyprian has a deeper, smokier taste and aroma. Latakia is an important condimental tobacco, and is used extensively in English and Balkan blends, as well as (in smaller quantities) in some American tobaccos.
Perique- Once again, Perique is not a tobacco, but a product of a process. Perique is made by growing a type of Burley in St. James Parish in Louisiana. The juices are pressed out of the leaf and fermented, then re-introduced to the tobacco. The process is repeated, leaving the tobacco dark reddish-brown, tart and spicy-sweet. Some describe the flavor as pepper and plum. It is a cool smoking tobacco, and is referred to as condimental, since it is used, normally, to affect, but not dominate a blend, so a little can go a long way.
Resources
- New Pipes Pipes, pipes and more pipes. Here we have one of the premier selections of briar pipes in the world. From Peterson pipes to Savinelli pipes and everything in between, the briar pipes you want at prices you can afford!
- Estate/Used pipes Estate pipes or Used pipes have been offered by tobacconists for years. This is a great way to buy a high grade and or beef up a collection with out maximum outlay.
- Pipe Gift Sets Packs Need a gift for the pipe smoker in your life? This page will direct you to an assortmant of gift packs. Some featuring a pipe with tobaccos and some just featuring tobaccos. Either way there is something for every pipe smoker!
- Filters and Inserts Pipe filters have long been a standard for a drier smoke as well as having the benefit of removing some unwanted ingredients found in pipe tobacco. Nicotine and irritants are trapped in the absorbent filters.
- Pipe Tools This section is devoted to pipe hardware or pipe tools. Keeping your pipe clean is part of the ritual. These tools enhance your experience and allows you the honor of taking care of a prized possesion. You’ll see it all here from the very expensive to the really inexpensive.
- Tobacco & Pipe Pouches From the inexpensive to the outrageous (not really it just sounded good)! However, we have some terrific deals on pipe tobacco pouches. Whether for everyday or weekend use, you can find something for the pipesmoker you love! NEW LaRocca Nappa leather tobacco pouches just in!
- Pipe Cleaners Standard, bristled, churchwarden, fluffy and tapered pipe cleaners from – BJ Long’s, Comoy’s, Dill’s and Ream & Klean. A pipe cleaner for every need!
- Polishes & Wipes Sweetener, Buffing Cloths, Polishes and Wipes for both pipe and stem. All the goodies you need to keep your puffer looking good and in perfect working order.
- Pipe Lighters When it comes to putting the heat to the briar there is no substitution for a great pipe lighter. Convenient and always at the ready. We have tried to include lighters in all ranges for the brothers of the pipe.
- Stands & Racks Looking for a great way to display your pipes? Here you can select from an assortment of makes, styles, and colors that are sure to please the eye and grab attention to those you hold dear.
- Pipe Literature Love the hobby? Want to learn more? The best place to start is Pipes and Tobaccos Magazine. Richard Carleton Hacker has written several books on Scotch, Cigars and Pipes and his pipe books are required reading by any hobbyist.
