4noggins Otter Creek

Very mild, pleasant if somewhat unadventurous aromatic tobacco with the usual gentle and subtle flavours typical of blends made by Rich. As for the leaf, Virginia seems to be somewhat muted, with Burley and Black Cavendish dominating. Fresh Virginia noticeable at first with flavours darkening somewhat soon and quite noticeable halfway through the bowl. The topping is only slight and it should not deter anyone not used to aromatics. Burns well straight out of the pouch. No tongue bite whatsoever, even when "pushed". Well developed fine ash, no relighting needed even the tobacco was not aired or dried first at all. Suits new pipe smokers who do not crave a nicotine hit, or non-aro smokers looking for a change of pace.

A very good sweet tobacco that burns very well. It is mild but has a good flavor. It is a good choice for a long big pipe smoke. I like it as my change of pace blend or for that long relaxing smoke. It burns well, clean and with a nice ash.

I really enjoy 4N's Thomas Blend and Three Blind Moose, but this one may just beat out both. The tin note has that real vanilla bean booziness to it. The cavendish is sweet and out front. The burley is right behind, nutty with a slight burnt taste. The virginia is the least noticeable, extremely mild sweet grass notes. The vanilla topping is sweet, at times it reminds me of those small marshmallows in Carnation hot chocolate mix, but it isn't heavy and it doesn’t take away from the tobacco. The vanilla does lessen by mid-bowl, but the tobacco is good enough to maintain one's interest. It smokes effortlessly. Decent amount of nicotine for an aromatic. It's especially smooth on the tongue and palate. It's not some life altering tobacco, but it is well blended, it tastes great, it has depth of flavour and an overall hearty character. Probably closer to 3 star, but I love vanilla burleys and there is zero bite, so it’s a 4. Highly recommend.