McClelland Grand Orientals: Yenidje Highlander

[uncballzer]

There wasn't really a "review" on this yet, but more of impressions, but I picked this tin up from Tedski's sale a couple weeks ago because I've been wanting to try more oriental blends. What's surprising with this blend, is that it also has virginia, and both Cyprian and Syrian latakia, and Maryland tobaccos. The taste stands out so far. I taste more of the sweetness of the virginia leafs more so than any of the others. It does have a little spice from the oriental, but it is mellowed by the virginia. Like others have said, it is really smooth in texture, and doesn't have any tongue bit.

I just cracked the tin tonight, and although the smell of the tobacco is really mild and mellowed, you can smell the latakia's "campfireness" to it. The tin wasn't soaking wet as some others are, but I did dry it out somewhat before packing. It's a normal ribbon cut, but into smaller pieces than other ribbons I've seen, which did help a little with packing.

The only problem I've had thus far with this blend, is the relights, which have been multiple thus far. Although I am smoking somewhat slow which could be the main problem. It does produce nice bellows of smoke, and again is fairly flavorful, tasted even without nose breathing.

Overall, a very smooth and mild smoke, something suitable for an "all day" smoke as was noted in a previous thread. This may become a staple in my rotation if the other bowls are consistent with this one.