ASW Smokin’ News – December 16th, 2015!

And speaking of RoMa Craft, you probably remember the Neanderthal… a powerhouse four-country blend known in some circles as the “Velvet Hammer.” The blend is impressive: a wrapper of Mexican San Andrés; a binder of true Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro; and fillers from Pennsylvania (a powerful double ligero), Nicaraguan (Condega, Jalapa, Pueblo Nuevo, and Esteli), and the Dominican Republic (Olor). This hearty blend is now available in a second size, a short robusto called SGP (for “Shallow Gene Pool,” an attribute of the Neanderthal species). Try one next time you’re in! The cooler weather calls for shorter cigars, so it’s best to be prepared for its arrival…

The latest new release from Curivari – that fantastic boutique line by European entrepreneur and cigar-lover Andreas Throuvalas – is an extension of their popular “natural” Seleccion Privada series (as opposed to the maduro variety). Rumor has it that Curivari’s blends are specifically formulated to replicate the flavor profiles of existing Cuban brands…for instance, El Gran Rey is comparable to Hoyo de Monterrey; Gloria de Leon is akin to Romeo y Julieta; thus, Seleccion Privada is Curivari’s take on Partagas.These new sizes – referred to collectively as Coronations – are smaller than the original S.P. line (), again perfect for a shorter winter smoke. The blend is pure Nicaraguan, featuring authentic Cuban-seed criollo and corojo and a pleasant habano wrapper; the sizes available are as follows: Petit Coronas (4⅜” x 42),Coronas (5⅛” x 42), and Cazadores (6⅛” x 44).

We’re proud to carry the entire Curivari line, so if you’re still unfamiliar, stop in and try one (or all!) of them right away! They’re one of the cigar world’s best-kept secrets.

Perusing my journal of the pipe blends I’ve smoked, I came across an entry for Mac Baren’s HH Bold Kentucky…and as I re-read my notes it became apparent that it was one of the strongest, most robust pipe tobaccos I’ve ever smoked (with the exception of Condor, which is available only in the U.K.).

Mac Baren’s HH line (the HH stands for Henrik Halberg, master blender) has been a proven winner among more experienced pipe-smokers; HH Old Dark-Fired and Acadian Perique are particularly big sellers here at ASW. Looking back at my notes, I’m reminded that when it comes to dark-fired Kentucky, being adequately hydrated and having a full belly are prerequisites to enjoying this potent, steamed and pressed flake tobacco.

Fresh from the tin, Bold Kentucky may require some drying time. The tightly-packed flakes rub out nicely, though, allowing for easy bowl-packing. HHBK is blended using Kentucky leaf from the U.S.A. and Africa (yes, they grow Kentucky tobacco in Africa), and it gets some balance and sweetness from ample portions of bright Virginia leaf.

My record of the smoking experience noted a sweet nuttiness throughout the smoke, with a full-bodied mouthfeel that I’m assuming comes from the Kentucky leaf. The overall profile was consistent, never over the top in intensity. I smoked it late on a warm summer evening; I smoked it outdoors as the room note, though not unpleasant, is rather potent.

A full 5-pipe rating this week for Mac Baren’s HH Bold Kentucky. Puff On!

And don’t forget: If you’re looking for a gift for the pipe-smoker in your life, stop in and check out our pipe department! We have everything you’re likely to need.