McClelland Anniversary 1977-2010
(3.22)
An elegant matured Virginia ribbon-cut blend, naturally sweet with that clarity of flavor possessed by only the best Virginias. Seasoned lightly with fine, cool-smoking Cyprian latakia. Aged for months to mellow.
Notes: Originally a limited edition Virginia mixture released in 2002 in celebration of McClelland's twenty-fifth anniversary; McClelland has decided to reintroduce its Anniversary blend in 2005 due to overwhelming demand.
A fine Virginia mixture with just a pinch of latakia to spice things up; this is an impeccable blend, sure to become a favorite.
Originally released in 2002 to commemorate 25 years of quality tobacco manufacturing, a total of 3000 tins were issued wrapped in commemorative ecru paper with a red wax seal. A second issue, bearing a green wax seal and an updated date span on the paper wrapping (1977-2005), was released in 2005. A third issue, bearing a (brownish) natural wax seal and updated date span (1977-2010), was released in 2010.
Details
| Brand | McClelland |
| Blended By | McClelland Tobacco Company |
| Manufactured By | McClelland Tobacco Company |
| Blend Type | Virginia/Latakia |
| Contents | Latakia, Virginia |
| Flavoring | |
| Cut | Ribbon |
| Packaging | 100 grams tin |
| Country | United States |
| Production | No longer in production |
Profile
Strength
Medium
Extremely Mild -> Overwhelming
Flavoring
None Detected
None Detected -> Extra Strong
Room Note
Pleasant
Unnoticeable -> Overwhelming
Taste
Medium
Extremely Mild (Flat) -> Overwhelming
Average Rating
|
3.22 / 4
|
Reviews
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Displaying 11 - 20 of 29 Reviews
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Oct 02, 2005 | Medium to Strong | None Detected | Medium to Full | Pleasant to Tolerable |
I waited three years to break the seal on this blend since I was only able to secure a solitary tin in 2002. Reading the reviews of this during my waiting period did not motivate me to get into it sooner.
Now that McClelland invites us to continue in joining the celebration of their founding with a regular supply of 25th Anniversary, I am now imbibing.
This blend is a gift to anyone capable of appreciating just how splendid matured Virginia tobacco can be. Reminiscent of Royal Vintage Matured Ribbon, 25th Anniversary blend is even deeper, richer, heavier and wondrously confectionary (without the slightest addition of sugars or topping) mélange.
The Virginias hit all the notes at various times throughout a bowlful, with emphasis on the darker VA flavors. This is fairly potent and near full-flavored in its class.
The Latakia is neither stingy nor the bulk of the flavor, yet there is plenty present nonetheless. It shows a side of McClelland Cyprian Latakia atypical to that of say British Woods, the Bombays, or Frogs (where applicable). Meaning, the Latakia here seems a little more distinct, spicier and richer and not muted as I note in my reviews of RV Latakia #2 and Frogs.
I think that the McNeill's choice of this style of blend to mark such an auspicious occasion tells us much about them and their perception of their loyal customers. I would have thought of a special flake tobacco more likely ala roll cake or something, but this was inspired to show their unexcelled processing and blending skills (not to mention patience).
The first third of a bowl is the sweetest part of the smoke and most varied, with Latakia keeping far in the background. Things even up between the VA and Lat mid-bowl and the last third is all about the richest flavors, especially that of the smoky smoked Smyrna called Latakia. From the nose of the unburned blend to its finale, there is nothing to disappoint and enough reasons to cellar for future privileges. Sip do not chug, a cool experience waits. Cheers.
Now that McClelland invites us to continue in joining the celebration of their founding with a regular supply of 25th Anniversary, I am now imbibing.
This blend is a gift to anyone capable of appreciating just how splendid matured Virginia tobacco can be. Reminiscent of Royal Vintage Matured Ribbon, 25th Anniversary blend is even deeper, richer, heavier and wondrously confectionary (without the slightest addition of sugars or topping) mélange.
The Virginias hit all the notes at various times throughout a bowlful, with emphasis on the darker VA flavors. This is fairly potent and near full-flavored in its class.
The Latakia is neither stingy nor the bulk of the flavor, yet there is plenty present nonetheless. It shows a side of McClelland Cyprian Latakia atypical to that of say British Woods, the Bombays, or Frogs (where applicable). Meaning, the Latakia here seems a little more distinct, spicier and richer and not muted as I note in my reviews of RV Latakia #2 and Frogs.
I think that the McNeill's choice of this style of blend to mark such an auspicious occasion tells us much about them and their perception of their loyal customers. I would have thought of a special flake tobacco more likely ala roll cake or something, but this was inspired to show their unexcelled processing and blending skills (not to mention patience).
The first third of a bowl is the sweetest part of the smoke and most varied, with Latakia keeping far in the background. Things even up between the VA and Lat mid-bowl and the last third is all about the richest flavors, especially that of the smoky smoked Smyrna called Latakia. From the nose of the unburned blend to its finale, there is nothing to disappoint and enough reasons to cellar for future privileges. Sip do not chug, a cool experience waits. Cheers.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Sep 02, 2006 | Medium | None Detected | Medium | Pleasant |
After having a number of tries at this tobacco from samples or from friends sharing out of plastic bags etc.... I finally decided to buy it myself. Until then, as with many other blends, it just wasn't the same. How people store their tobacco, reconstitute dried tobacco and a plethora of other conditions matters greatly to the experience. Until I started buying tins of this myself, I was not a fan. Then ... it all changed. I love the blend. Its in the greater rotation and I'm often a pig about it ... lighting consecutive bowls. Probably because the tin reads 'for special occassions' - my version of 'stick'n it to the man' ... but it's always terrific.
As usual with tinned tobacco, a little airing goes a long way. I like to open them ... seal with the supplied lid and sniff it a few days before smoking. Quite often I empty the contents into a mason jar and come back a week later to begin consuming. NO plastic bags and NO squirting distilled water on it. If it goes a little dry in a pouch, I'll reconstitute it in a humidor. Period.
Well that is why it took me so long to circle back and re-try this blend. I'm glad I did. It is a classic. Not overly complex, not boring at all. Wonderful high quality and very refined.
Cheers, VC
As usual with tinned tobacco, a little airing goes a long way. I like to open them ... seal with the supplied lid and sniff it a few days before smoking. Quite often I empty the contents into a mason jar and come back a week later to begin consuming. NO plastic bags and NO squirting distilled water on it. If it goes a little dry in a pouch, I'll reconstitute it in a humidor. Period.
Well that is why it took me so long to circle back and re-try this blend. I'm glad I did. It is a classic. Not overly complex, not boring at all. Wonderful high quality and very refined.
Cheers, VC
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| May 01, 2006 | Medium to Strong | Medium | Medium to Full | Tolerable |
After reading William Serad`s review of this tobacco in Pipes And Tobacco magazine, I knew I had to try a tin. Beautifully packaged with a wax seal over the paper wrapped around the tin, I felt that this was going to be `it`. McClelland tobaccos have always been a favourite of mine, and this was supposedly their flagship offering. First impressions: The smell of latakia coming from the freshly opened tin was stronger than I had expected. I thought this might have just a little dash of the black smoky stuff..but actually it`s quite prominent..although in absolutely no way overpowering. Smoking it...Anniversary is a real treat. It has a deep mature virginia taste, but with enough latakia to add a delightful amount of depth without going into the realms of a full english. The taste becomes more complex as you progress through the bowl. All in all, this is a great tobacco...and as the tin suggests, should be saved for special occaisions. I am aging a jar of this in my tobacco cupboard and can only imagine it will improve with time.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 25, 2015 | Mild to Medium | None Detected | Medium | Pleasant |
(Tin dated 2015 with a brown wax seal) a very smooth offering, McC does all their Virginias really well and this is no exception. The blend is a predominantly a red Virginia blend with only a touch of Latakia . The Virginias are sweet & tangy without any bite. The Latakia provides some creamy smoothness without dominating the Virginias. This is a typical McC use of latakia, almost Syrian in style , smooth yet fragrant but not harsh or campfire strong .
I find this blend very similar to Solani White & Black, but smoother, and maybe even a little milder. If your looking for a replacement for Lancer Slices ( Virginia/Latakia ) this isn't it, LC is not as smooth and has more Latakia .
The price break at 100 gr vs. the 50 gr. for the White & Black makes this blend the buy. If you like Virginias and don't mind a touch of Latakia, , this could be for you. Another McC "Virginia" gem.
Just as a side note on the tin dateing: according to the notes above , the brown seal was produced between date span (1977-2010) and was released in 2010, but my tin was date stamped "9 _2015" ???? Was this a date or a run #? I don't really know if my tin is new or 5 years old?
I find this blend very similar to Solani White & Black, but smoother, and maybe even a little milder. If your looking for a replacement for Lancer Slices ( Virginia/Latakia ) this isn't it, LC is not as smooth and has more Latakia .
The price break at 100 gr vs. the 50 gr. for the White & Black makes this blend the buy. If you like Virginias and don't mind a touch of Latakia, , this could be for you. Another McC "Virginia" gem.
Just as a side note on the tin dateing: according to the notes above , the brown seal was produced between date span (1977-2010) and was released in 2010, but my tin was date stamped "9 _2015" ???? Was this a date or a run #? I don't really know if my tin is new or 5 years old?
Pipe Used:
cob
Age When Smoked:
new
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 20, 2015 | Mild to Medium | None Detected | Medium | Tolerable |
I have smoked both the 2002 version and a current version with a year of age on it. Besides the Virginias deepening and sweetening with age, both versions featured the same taste and fine tobaccos. I really enjoyed how the smoky latakia played off the sweet Virginia in perfect harmony, not one tobacco overtook the other, reminded me of a steak from Ruth Chris with butter and salt, the latakia playing a condimental role and not overpowering the virginia. Delicious fresh but with 5+ years this turns into a masterpiece that needs to be tried. Anniversary is not a complex blend, but the latakia increases the sweetness of the Virginia much like how salt in caramel or chili powder in chocolate does. Anniversary will not win you praise from the opposite sex regarding room note but did not get me kicked out of the house for smoking either... YMMV... I suggest buying two tins, one to smoke now and the other to compare your notes in 5 years. The best sweet and sour blend I have had the pleasure of trying, 4 stars easy with some age on the tin!!
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Aug 14, 2011 | Medium | None Detected | Medium to Full | Pleasant |
Tin date 092005. Latikia blended perfectly with the VA. Sweet and creamy, this is one of the few McClelland Va's that do not bite my tongue. Rich and chewy smoke, burns perfect to the bottom of the bowl. Moisture content perfect upon opening. A definite recommendation.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Dec 03, 2003 | Medium | None Detected | Medium | Pleasant to Tolerable |
I found this to be a very well balanced blend throughout. Enough smokiness from the latakia to make things interesting and healthy amount of sweetness to satisfy my love for Virginias.
For a latakia mix, the room note is not bad. I smoked this over the holiday and even my sister in law commented on the nice pipe smell emanating from the patio.
One of McClelland's best to date. If you find a place that still has it, buy all of it.
For a latakia mix, the room note is not bad. I smoked this over the holiday and even my sister in law commented on the nice pipe smell emanating from the patio.
One of McClelland's best to date. If you find a place that still has it, buy all of it.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Sep 06, 2002 | Strong | None Detected | Very Full | Tolerable |
Without a doubt, the absolute best of the best as far as full-flavored pipe tobaccos go. It is an absolute treat. The flavor is rich, complex, and has that McClelland's saltiness to it that makes it an unmistakably McClelland tobacco. I've never had a tobacco that can be so smooth and so harsh at the same time. I love the beginning of the bowl, but it gets a bit rough towards the end. I have to remind myself to sip slower near the conclusion of the bowl. I can't wait to get my hands on (or make) a churchwarden so I don't have to worry about the bite so much.
I give this tobacco a whopping 8/10. It's hands down my favorite non-aromatic tobacco.
I give this tobacco a whopping 8/10. It's hands down my favorite non-aromatic tobacco.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Dec 17, 2013 | Medium | Medium | Medium | Pleasant to Tolerable |
When I saw a tin of this at my local B&M, I simply had to have it and give it a whirl. It was well worth the slightly higher price. First off, this is a marvelous blend that you just wish McClelland had made a ton of. All the components come together for me the almost perfect smoking experience. The packaging just adds to the pleasure of getting to the tobacco. High recommended, if there is any left I would grab them.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Apr 22, 2010 | Medium | None Detected | Medium | Very Pleasant |
If we have called some blends kings of the flavor range, we are now in the presence of a genuine emperor. For many smokers, it is the indisputable number one. If you have scaled all the heights of the art of pipe smoking, there, if you dare try this blend, it will be love from that moment, and you will not want to know anything about the others. It is the blend par excellence of great times, public or private. Giving yourself Anniversary from McClelland is giving yourself the pleasure of smoking one of the finest tobaccos in the world.
As good as a Partagas Lusitanias, yes, that good!,,,,
or listening to a silver flute in the great dome of the Taj Mahal.
Or perhaps you choose to continue the quest for that clumsy dull eyed ox complexity, as you wish. Just remember that simplicity is the teacher of complexity.
As good as a Partagas Lusitanias, yes, that good!,,,,
or listening to a silver flute in the great dome of the Taj Mahal.
Or perhaps you choose to continue the quest for that clumsy dull eyed ox complexity, as you wish. Just remember that simplicity is the teacher of complexity.
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