J. F. Germain & Son King Charles Smoking Mixture

Anyone who likes their English blends blended in England will be, at a minimum, unoffended by King Charles. It possesses a character not replicated in "English" blends from any other country.

There are, however, more eloquent and more enjoyable statements to be smoked. There is nothing objectionable in this mixture, but, alas, there is nothing redeeming either. It is merely an acceptable smoke.

The Virginias, indeed all components, are top-grade, well-aged, and processed properly. They just, IMHO, are not worth the price when there are many of other "light" English blends that offer more bang for the buck...Like Piccadilly from GL Pease.

Two out of four stars.

I must pretty much echo what has been said in the reviews above. I am down to the last couple of bowls left in the tin and will probably not buy another, but this is not to say this is not a high quality blend. I simply prefer blends with more strength and taste.

The Taste, though not strong, is by no means monochromatic. The Virginias of course give their natural sweetness while the Latakia and Oriental components lend a teasing smokey-spicey interplay. This is a blend best enjoyed while seated quietly on a still evening, listening to the crickets and tree frogs calling out their love songs. Any activity, for me at least, will distract from the enjoyment of KC's subtleties.

The most positive point for this blend is that the moisture content was perfect out of the tin. I have hardly ever had to relight a bowl of KC.

This is a very solid light English blend. Very nice bouquet of flavors, although a bit on the subtle side. Difficulty in finding it and price (I think I paid about $28 for a tin) are the only factors keeping me from giving it 3 stars--as it is this is more in the 2 1/2 star range for me. Certainly enjoyable, and burns very well without getting too hot. Not out-of-this-world, but a good smoke nonetheless.