Ken Byron Ventures Double Eagle

A variety of very complex, matured Virginias from around the world range from bright, orange, red, and brown provide a wealth of tart and tangy citrus, grass, hay, vegetation, bread, plenty of tangy ripe and dried dark fruits, tart lemon, earth, wood, some floralness, sugar, mild spice, herbs, smoke, light acidity, stewed fruit, and a touch of vinegar. The bright Va. takes a little lead in the proceedings, but the potent African Va.s certainly shine through. The strength is a couple of steps past the medium mark. The taste is a notch past that. The nic-hit is just below the strength level. It won’t bite or get harsh though there is a light roughness present as there is no topping. I do suggest a moderate smoking cadence because of the floral and tingly acidic qualities inherent in the mix. Burns cool and clean at a reasonable rate with a very consistent deep, punchy, zesty, fruity, sugary, floral, spicy, acidic, pure Virginia flavor. Barely leaves any dampness in the bowl, and doesn’t requires many relights. Has a pleasantly lingering after taste. The room note is a tad stronger. Despite its strength, it can be an all day smoke for the veteran, and even a mixer for the scientists in the pipe world. Three and a half stars rounded up to four.

-JimInks