Smokers' Haven Exotique Mixture

Smoker's Haven makes reference in their description that this is similar to Sobranie 759 and admittedly it is close, but not quite as satisfying as the original. It comes quite wet and with very long ribbons that I have to break down to be ready for me to smoke. It lights and burns to a light gray ash once it has been dried somewhat. Not overwhelming with the latakia, but a nice blend of latakia and orientals. This will likely be my standard Balkan.

I happened upon the Smokers' Haven web-site and immediately wanted to reacquaint myself with their proprietary blends. I remember receiving their catalog and happily ordering items while I served in the Army during the early Seventies. Our Best Blend, Exotique Mixture, Krumble Kake, Cognac Mixture and 20th Anniversary Mixture were some of the blends I remembered. After receiving my order I made sure Exotique was the first one I opened. Exotique is advertised [by Smokers' Haven] as the closest thing to Sobranie 759, though I can't remember ever smoking the original I had great hopes for this blend (I was not disappointed).

The mixture is ribbon cut, the tobacco mostly dark with some lighter leaf mixed in and the tin aroma is wonderful, fragrant, smoky and Balkan. Packing and lighting are simple affairs, the mix is slightly springy. The flavor is medium to full and evolves while smoking, first the Orientals are predominate then the VAs and back again with the Latakia adding depth and fullness; not too sweet or bitter but just right. Packed in my Imp Meer this is a delightful blend. If I were to have only two or three Tobaccos to choose from this would surely be one. 9-1/2 Stars out of 10.

This smoking mixture has a little of everything for all those interested in a mild English/Balkan blend. Pleasant and rich tasting from start to finish, both Latakias combine with the excellent Turkish leaf for a satisfying symphony of flavors on a stage provided by the light Virginia. The only thing I would suggest for improvement would be the use of a pressed and sliced cake instead of the ribbon cut. The key word to this blender's product is balance. No one leaf stands apart from the others but instead, all combine to make a pleasant smoking experience.

Meerschaum Man Smoking a CAO Bacchus

A really fine English blend, that some would call an Oriental, but it's all subjective really. 🙂

The very excellent Turkish tobacco takes control in Exotique over the Latakias, which are still there, adding an element of complexity and smokieness to the blend that would otherwise be sorely missed.

A really fine cut gives this blend an almost shag look, and dyring out is a good idea as well. The guys at Smokers Haven recommended that you let this sit for about three hours spread out on a piece of white paper, and "really watch the clock on this one", or else the essential elements will start to evaporate along with the moisture. After which the tobacco smokes much clearer and more defined.

Otherwise a very peppery, spicey and smokey blend from Smokers Haven that is destined to satisfy, wheather you are looking for an Oriental or an English.

I don't know why I waited so long to try this blend. This will be one that I'll always want to keep on-hand