Cornell & Diehl Black Frigate

I found this blend to be somewhere between Penzance and Pirate Kake.

Full of smoky flavor, and as mentioned before, not for someone just crossing over from aromatics!

Like others, I thought I remembered something about rum, but I re-checked, nope, no mention of it on the tin. Guess that could be why I never tasted it.

There is really nothing wrong with this tobacco, it's wonderful stuff. Not an everyday smoke though. Nice in the evening. Very relaxing.

This was a good smoke, though not what I imagined. I think everyone needs to settle on an official definition of a Navy Cavendish. No rum note, no Va. (though to C&D's credit-Its not advertised...) That said- Once I put my expectations aside- Great smoke. Very smooth and creamy- Strong and commanding taste- Has that Cigar taste that can sometimes be perfect for the moment... Don't give this to someone just getting off aromatics or Drug store swill... Makes you want to raise a flag and become a Privateer....

This has the cut and consistency of Pirate Kake, but not as luscious and nougatine. It?s a navy cavendish cake with the traditional Jamaican rum thrown in. Again, C & D uses liquor without sacrificing true tobacco taste. It?s mellower and less aggressive than Pirate Kake and not as sweet and chewy as Mississippi Mud. It?s a less memorable cross between those two laudable blends. It?s enjoyable, and I might bum a brick off a buddy now and again. Perhaps I?ll like it more after a few more tastes, though when I want a latakia overload, I?d rather turn to PK or MM.

Two and a half of five stars

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november 05 update

Yes, I tried it again. Yes, I like it more. It hits the back of the throat a little, probably due to the rum, but it's still a rich, latakia indulgence. It reminds me a little of Penzance, though not as smokey & oily as Germain's treatment. This needs to be tasted several times to be appreciated. It won't be part of my regular rotation, but I think I might keep a tin on hand for when I want something unusual & exotic.

Three and a half of five stars

My first experience with a crumble Kake. A smooth, sweet blend which has struck a chord with me.

I've found that the larger block you manage to get going as a whole, the more even and smooth the flavors become. The rum integrates so well that it is barely noticeable...and then only an enhancement to the sweetness. While not full of varied components, the taste does have layers from musky and peppery to almost sugary as you work your way down the bowl.

One particular churchwarden I have has taken a liking to this blend, and always seems to evoke a sweet-smokey ride across the white, fluffy waves!

Black Frigate is a rather strong latakia crumble cake that is somewhat like Penzance, but stronger and smokier. It breaks out very well, packs and burns nicely. While it does not have a wide range of flavors, it builds to a very nice crescendo in the bottom third of the bowl. Like most C&D's, it is rather dry out of the can, but I like my tobaccos a little on the dry side so that's fine with me.

This will never be my everyday smoke, but as a change of pace, it fits nicely into my rotation.