Robert McConnell Boutique Blend

I went to my favorite pipe shop to pick up a tin of Peterson's Early Morning Pipe, and I was persuaded by my tobacconist to pick this one up instead, on the grounds that the flavor is nearly identical, and richer, while simultaneously being less inclined to bite since the McConnell's take on this classic staple didn't use as much Bright Virginia as the Peterson version. I had initially been interested in Early Morning Pipe because it was purportedly milder than the classic My Mix 965, and I wanted something in my rotation that was a bit tamer than some of the headier smoking stuff that I'd been exploring. Don't get me wrong, 965 is a classic staple, and is delicious in its own right, but as with all things, there's a proper time and a place, and sometimes 965 just seems a bit much to start the day with. At a glance, Boutique Blend's appearance is a uniform reddish-brown ribbon, and smells quite nice in the tin-Classic Turkish/Virginia smell akin to a fresh pack of Camel cigarettes but less plasticky. Slightly sweet and figgy notes play nicely alongside a subtle, earthy cocoa undertone, I'm guessing from Burley? I can't say proportionally how much Burley it contains...I definitely feel like it's there though. This is complimented by equally gentle smoky, floral notes from the Latakia. Quite nice and inviting, not overpowering by any means. It's a tad moist right out of the tin but if you let it sit a half hour or so before lighting up it'll take the flame well without being harsh or bitey. The taste is exactly as I was told to expect-965 with a bit less Latakia and punch to the nerves. It's warm, sweet and mellow, without being completely bereft of flavor or heft. Fruitier and more caramelly than 965 for sure...with a toasted marshmallow quality, which, to me, is what indicates that the Burley quotient is a touch higher, and in Boutique/Early Bird, what lends it its signature mildness. In fact, comparing it to Early Morning Pipe, the smell and taste (hell even the color and cut) are nearly indistinguishable, but Early Morning seems to provide just a bit more pepper to the tongue. Quite nice and relaxing to smoke in any bowl, all day if you're so inclined. If you like aromatics but are looking to take a step towards more a traditional smoke and dial back the sugar, this one would be a good jumping-off point for you. I'd even go so far as recommending this for someone who's never smoked a pipe in the first place but was curious to try. It smokes cool and dry, without too much tending that could serve to frustrate a new smoker. To that end, if I personally had cut my teeth on this, I probably would've saved myself a lot of tedium fiddling with keeping overly saturated aromatics lit without scorching my mouth. I rather enjoy the consistent 'Early morning' theme, both of the iconic Dunhill original and its clones. It's appropos. This is a superb mix to light up after breakfast with your second cup of coffee or tea. Start the day with a bowlful of Boutique and browse the paper or channel-surf a bit, and you'll be starting it off right. However, with that being said, This stuff is enjoyable all day for sure, and if you're the kind of smoker that isn't inclined to too much variety, this one goes with anything provided it's relaxing. Whether you're lounging in the recliner, tinkering around in the garage, fishing, building a model plane, or hanging out at a barbecue waiting for the goodies on the grill, or even just enjoying the sunset, Boutique is sure to please any time of day.

According to "tradition," Kohlhase & Kopp does not put the production date, so we have to refer to the excise stamp. In my case, the year 2019 was listed. Opened the can gave a quiet, but very complex aroma, consisting of the bread smell of quality Virginia with a very light citrus hint, sweet smoky tar latakia, light milky acidity, as well as musk and spice of Turkish orientals. The smell of tobacco is absolutely natural and very pleasant.

The tobacco is cut in even ribbons, well-mixed, but the different varieties are easy to guess, with colors ranging from yellowish brown to almost black. Judging by the bag, Virginia is about two-thirds and the rest is orientals and latakia, although the percentage composition is of course a trade secret of the manufacturer. The tobacco has a normal moisture content, puffs easily, and lights up instantly.

The smoked blend has a luxurious flavor of fresh bread with a sweet flavor, white pepper, turmeric, loose black tea, and a slight flavor of dark raisins. Latakia blends very harmoniously into the overall bouquet - the blend is highly recommended to those who want to try British blends, but are wary of "latakia bombs". The strength of tobacco is below average, it does not change when smoked. The tobacco smokes very cool and smooth, does not go out, however, contains quite a lot of moisture. Despite this, there are almost no ashes.

The smoke from the tobacco has a slight smoky note, generally repeating the smell of tobacco. It does not hang in a carpet, but quickly disperses.

Bottom line: I was very pleased with my experience with this tobacco. The only thing that is a little frustrating is its price, which is a little higher than regular blends. But the tobacco itself is clearly in the premium segment, so there's nothing to complain about. I will definitely get it for my collection on occasion, though I still have a couple of cans left to open. This blend is quite capable of becoming an everyday blend (if, of course, you have enough money to buy it). Considering the Oriental Square review I wrote earlier, you have to admit that the idea of recreating Dunhill formulas was a success.