Dunhill My Mixture 1167

I originally purchased this under the label "Cuba" from the Dunhill store in London in 1999 as part of a larger mail-order. As I understand it, this was the last year the private-label "My Mixtures" were still hand-blended by Dunhill in the London flagship store. Later production was shipped out like all of the mass-market mixtures to Murray's before being discontinued.

Cuba is a balanced blend wherein each of the components makes its presence known and contributes to a unified, distinct whole--which is the essence of a true "mixture." The Virginias provide a dry background (kind of like the tannins in Chianti), while the Cavendish adds a slight sweetness, and the Perique contributes its peculiar spice. The cigar leaf, however, is the prime attraction and is discernible throughout the smoke and in the side-stream aroma, adding creaminess and depth. The cigar leaf is of the highest quality. The description specifically lists, "Havana filler leaf," and I believe it.

The tobacco itself is a slightly finer cut than usually found in Dunhill My Mixture blends, and accordingly, it ignites readily and remains lit with little effort or attention. I only wish I would have stockpiled rooms full of this stuff when it was still available. I wonder if Dunhill would ever consider reissuing a series of premium quality, hand-blended mixtures that hearken back to their halcyon days. I for one would be willing to shell out some extra bucks to take another trip to "Cuba."