BriarWorks International Bacon Old Fashioned

UPDATE 08.29.19 I'm actually going to bump this up to a four, partially just to help offset the - to me - undeserved hate this blend gets. I've actually smoked this just about daily for a month and it keeps on growing on me, which I think is partially the result of some breathing time fluffed up in the jar. The whiskey/orange/smoky taste is actually quite well done and, with proper drying time, is rather flavorful in topping and tobacco, as well as a bit creamy. The problem is is that it is somewhat inconsistent and a bit finicky, which I mainly attribute to the cut, which is quite a potpourri and, like another reviewer, I, too, found a piece of leaf about two inches long in my jar. Despite this, I'd say this blend achieves what its creators set out to accomplish, which is a lovely smoke that carries some of the flavors of a citrus-y, smoky old fashioned. Definitely my favorite aromatic behind Lakelands and I will likely repurchase, which wasn't in the cards initially. Can burn somewhat fast and the nicotine can be a bit of a creeper.

ORIGINAL REVIEW: This tobacco doesn't get a fair shake, being kind of an oddball. That being said, I get none of the advertised bacon (for which I am grateful), which I think is what gets it all the attention. What I do get is a fairly mild whiskey topping with a bit more orange essence interwoven. Unfortunately, there is the occasional "bile" note that others have mentioned, but I find it's fleeting and usually quickly transitions into orange. Overall, this is rather creamy and smooth and, I think, achieves what the blenders set out to accomplish - a tobacco that (as near as possible) tastes like an old fashioned. Though maybe one from an airport bar. I found the nicotine mild leaning towards medium when smoked in the morning, more towards mild at other times. Again, kind of an oddball, but not unpleasant and worth a shot by all but the most close-minded. I would say more like two-and-a-half stars, but I'm rounding up.