I am currently enjoying a tin of Santa's Mistake that is dated 11/03. So it is the original run. I found the tin - somewhat dusty - in a pipe shop I stopped at during a recent trip. I bought 2 tins (there were 3).

Syrian latakia is so wonderfully different than its cousin from Cyprus. Syrian is far mellower and less smokey. Lightly smokey and complex but not the big smokey hit associated with Cyprian latakia. Now don't get me wrong because I love Cyprian latakia and smoke plenty of it . . . but Syrian is uniquely different. Syrian is gentle and complex whereas Cyprian is full and flavorful.

As for Santa's Mistake - I disagree that it is a "full English blend" as advertised. Instead, I find it very mellow and smooth with not too much of a nicotine hit. Reminds me of a high-quality Balkan without that Turkish influence (does that make any sense at all?).

If you enjoy English or Balkans and run across a tin or 2 of Santa's Mistake you should buy it. It is very tasty and would even appeal to those of you who like real tobacco flavor but are not partial to heavy Latakia.

And the real lesson here is to frequent local pipe shops . . . particularly when traveling. You never know what you might find!!! Plus we all must support our wonderful hobby!

I like Syrian latakia: it's sweeter and less bitter than its Cyprian counterpart, like bacon is to charred steak. Both have their appeals, but the Syrian seems more transparent, allowing other flavors to shine through as well. In this case, it's red Virginias. Very little sweetness here despite them and the cavendish; I like to add a pinch of blending oriental for more breadth and aromaticity.

This blend is an artifact already. You won't find it being coveted like its overhyped cousins from the Pease camp, but it is definitely worth buying at modest prices if found. This may well have been mistakenly blended; it needed just a bit more development. Overall, I think McClelland's Frog is better in terms of richness, availability, value and as a showcase for Syrian. Three stars, nonetheless, I think this will age very nicely.

A shame that this mishap is a scarcity, as it is frankly one of the best English mixtures I've had. Were it available all the time it would be my mainstay in conjunction with the esteemed Margate - when I wanted something a little more "in your face". I believe the quality and skill outranks any of the Dunhill offerings. As has been noted - a large bowl is the way to go. The smokey musk at the bottom makes this a very pleasant ride with a rewarding finish. I've got my stash, and I'll likely order your share if you neglect this blend. -----

As far as this Elf is concerned, Santa can continue making these mistakes. This is a fantastic - smooth and naturally sweet - blend. There are notes of cigar, cocoa and spice - a nearly perfect winter blend. Gentle on the palate yet satisfying. Harmonized, musky yet inviting and savory. It is an exceptionally high quality set of ingredients blended and aged expertly.

With the low production amount I unfortunately will not be able to smoke this * regulary*. The shortage of Syrian makes this christmas gift an extra precious stocking stuffer. However I do plan to savor and reserve an amount of this 4 star offering.

Appearance and Tin aroma: Mostly light leaf, some reds, and some of that black shiny Syrian. Smells wonderful, the Syrian leaf aroma very noticable.

Packing and Lighting: Easy, with moisture perfect out of the tin. 2-3 lights max.

Initial Flavor: Syrian Latakia! Yummmm.

Mid-bowl: The red VA cavendish is noticable and adds a nice sweet note to the smoky Syrian leaf.

Bottom of Bowl: A tartness comes out (Perique?), but is not overwhelming. There is also a healthy increase of flavor strength from the Syrian leaf with some of the similar wine notes that Pease's Bohemian Scandal has.

Overall: This is a nice counterpoint to the McClellands "Christmas Cheer" series. Be sure to stow away a tin or two, since the Syrian used in this is gone now. I found a big pipe to be the best way to enjoy this blend. Obviously, this will be a special occasion smoke for me. Well done, C&D.

Rating: 5 out of 5 points, enjoy...