Missouri Meerschaum Missouri Malta

I was pleasantly surprised by this blend. It does not seem cheap. Ribbon cut and coming from a plastic pouch you just never know. The word that best describes this for me is vanilla. If I had to use two words, they would be vanilla bean, as that flavoring seems to have just a bit more tang. The blend is quite moist, so dry it out if you are so inclined. A good charring light is essential, or you will be lighting frequently. Pack it in and leave plenty on top. If you have a directed flame, not to say a torch lighter, you will save yourself some tongue burn. Lighting with a match or soft flame lighter is laborious and transfers heat more quickly to your mouth than the tobacco. And the first quarter of the bowl might be spent puffing just a bit too intensely so as to keep it lit, so that first quarter can be a bit harsh. But if you can transition past that part quickly, efficiently, and without getting your mouth too hot, then the rest of the smoke is very pleasant and predictable. Burns evenly and leaves little to no dottle. I might have given this four stars, but the tricky start gives me pause and I'm simply not partial to blends that are overly sweet. Very good showing from MM, just not my favorite.

Package note of vanilla, sugar and spices. Tobacco is a ribbon cut of reddish brown, with a little tan and black mixed in. Moisture content is ok, most pipe smokers will want to dry it a bit. Burns moderate with a few relights. The strength is mild and nic is mild. Flavoring is medium, with notes of vanilla that's fairly powerful in the beginning, starts to taper off in after the first 1/3, but only enough to taste some of the other tobaccos. Taste is mild to medium and moderately consistent, with notes of vanilla, marshmallow, cinnamon, sugar, molasses, buttery, savory, spices, cocoa, nutty, bread, creamy, wood, dry hay, floral vegetation, dry dirt, a graham cracker and spices background note, and a smooth retro. Flavoring is leading with Cavendish and Burley supporting. Virginia is supporting from afar. Room note is pleasant, and aftertaste is good.