G. L. Pease Telegraph Hill

Tin note of pungent, tart raisins and sugar. Tobacco is a Ribbon cut of yellowish tan and light brown with a little dark brown. Moisture content is great. Burns moderate with few relights. The strength is medium and nic is mild to medium. No flavoring detected. Taste is medium and mostly consistent, with notes of sugar, raisins, orange peel/zest, savory, spices, floral, rich earth, wood, fermented musty vegetation, sweet grass, bready, slightly spicy, a tangy dark plums and tart citrus background note, and a peppery retro. Virginia is leading with Perique supporting. Room note is pleasant to tolerable, and aftertaste is great.

The tin note of dry fruit and a bit of citrus does not come near to tell us everything there is to this blend.

It is a very enjoyable smoke, with spice and sweetness come out as you go. Led by red Virginias, supplemented by decent amount of Perique. The lighter Virginias are far in the background and produce the slight flavor of citrus. Sip slow to enjoy all the flavors. Some of the sweetness develops towards the middle of the bowl. More spiciness comes in towards the end.

It's fairly complex, with all the main flavors come out pretty loud, but with great balance between them.

Like other blends in the Fog City series, Telegraph Hill also comes in perfect moisture, easy to pack and smoke. Can be an all-day smoke, although because of its complexity and fullness you might want to save it for less frequent occasions.

Full body, medium strength, some complexity.

For me this is definitely a fantastic Virginia-Perique blend to get more of and set some aside for aging. It reminds me of my favorite Stratford, but with enhanced flavor, body, and strength. In terms of flavor alone, this is the best G.L. Pease blend for me. Easy full score.