E. A. Carey (Europe) No. 7 Ready Rubbed

I first smoked this tobacco when I sampled some blends from EAC. Very quickly it became a favourite and has since been on the regular delivery list for their Tobacco Club, together with Dark Flake No. 7 and now their Bruno Special. The dark intensity of this blend appeals enormously. I've taken to smoking stronger tobaccos over the last few months and this really does have an enticing aroma and taste. Dark, rich and heavy in both look and aroma, as you light up you get a great cloud of smoke that is full of a bitter sweetness reminiscent of dark chocolate. The sweetness is not cloying at all. A slight hint of spice, more like figs and deeply stewed fruit, but with a wonderful earthiness as well. As you smoke down, the taste mellows and 'thickens' somewhat. It is an extremely smooth smoke, well rounded and cool. I have had no bite whatsoever. As to an earlier reviewer's comment about dryness, only one pack delivered was such. The rest have been perfectly moist and as the pack is opened there is a terrific smell of liquorice that wafts out. Strength is relatively high but not unpleasant. My levels must be well and truly acclimatised by now! For a late evening smoke or an early morning one with a bit of a kick, this could be for you. It has been a firm favourite with me for almost a year now and it will remain so. I've just packed a Milner Jar with a couple of packs of it and hope to let it mature for a while if I can. I recommend this tobacco.