[Arizona]

"Sip the pipe slowly...tiny puffs"

This is true, you sip on the pipe softly once it's lit you dont puff it hard unless it's starting to go out, then give it a few strong tugs.

Also once in awhile very softly blow OUT thru the pipe, this improves combustion for some reason and makes for a better smoke.

Now as to the bite I'd say it's the tobacco. Go to a tobacco shop and get some better tobacco. That really fruity highly aromatic stuff tends to be harsh. For a new person this is not good.

Keep us posted and let us know what u find.