John Aylesbury Dragon Blend

John Aylesbury Premium Blend was introduced to the market way too fresh. By opening the tin you were greeted by an intense caramel topping that was not synthetic but overwhelming at first. It felt immature during the smoke, while neither the used tobaccos, nor the gin/brandy had a chance to get through. Therefore I got an occasional bite when I wasn’t careful.

The potential was there I thought and let it sit for about two years.

What I got was a sophisticated aromatic for those who like aromatics at medium strength. Caramel is still present, but more as in Larsen No. 32, together with that alcoholic note I was missing when fresh. Virginia tickle, no bite. On the way to the bottom of the bowl you sporadically hit one of the small curly cuts in the mix, which keeps it not only interesting, but I can even see myself placing them with purpose and then celebrate like a child when I hit one. The premium blend became what it’s called and one of my favorite aromatics. Enjoy!

Aromatic - yes it is, but not annoying in any case. I am swinging between classic English blend (love to feel some Latakia and Orient) - and well-balanced aromatic blends. This is exactly the case. Burns evenly, cool, to the very bottom. If too fresh, will probably need a couple of re-lightings; mild and soft - you would have to smoke as a chimney to get a tongue-bite. Not too pricey, but by no means cheap. This one is on my favorite list. Will alway have a can of this one in my “cellar”.

Dragon Blend: A Tasty Aromatic that Can Devastate Your Tongue

The casing is quite tasty. The liquors, whatever they are, blend well with the brown sugar syrup without turning the tobacco into a sugary-soppy mess. The tobacco is mostly made up of bright and red Virginia varietals that provide a bright-grassy edge and some tanginess to the smoke. The burley and Cavendish do not add much in terms of flavor. Overall, Dragon Blend is nice for an occasional pipe session, but this blend must be smoked like a straight Virginia or it will taste of ash and scorch your tongue into oblivion.

Upon first light, the brandy and other liquor makes itself known. I thought I tasted an orange liqueur such as Grand Marnier, but who knows. The boozy flavors merge well with the sweetness of the caramel, which together dominate the tin note and the first third of the smoke. The tobacco components make themself known the further down the bowl you smoke. The Virginias are grassy and slightly tangy. The burleys add some nutty flavors. The rest gets lost under the casing/topping.

There is some potential for tongue bite.

Is it good: yes. Is it the best aromatic that I have ever smoked: no. But, Dragon Blend is a nice blend to smoke around Christmas.

I'm a bit disappointed with this one. I found it to be somewhat bland tasting which surprised me considering the number of toppings listed in the description. The only flavor I could distinguish was brandy and it was fairly light. The blend started become harsh about halfway through the bowl and never settled down again. The Dragon is not for me but others may enjoy it.