Gawith, Hoggarth & Co. Black Irish X Unsliced
(2.80)
All Gawith & Hoggarth twist tobacco varieties are manufactured by the same spinning process using dark fired wrapper leaves. The filler for Black Irish X is predominantly dark fired leaf with the addition of a small percentage of dark air cured Indian leaf. They are therefore strong tobaccos. Black Twist, because the cooking process removes some of the stronger tar and nicotine elements, provides a mellower smoke than the brown twist.
Details
| Brand | Gawith, Hoggarth & Co. |
| Blended By | Gawith, Hoggarth & Co. |
| Manufactured By | Gawith, Hoggarth & Co. |
| Blend Type | Virginia/Burley |
| Contents | Burley, Virginia |
| Flavoring | Maple, Sweet / Sugar |
| Cut | Rope |
| Packaging | Bulk |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | Currently available |
Profile
Strength
Very Strong
Extremely Mild -> Overwhelming
Flavoring
None Detected
None Detected -> Extra Strong
Room Note
Strong
Unnoticeable -> Overwhelming
Taste
Full
Extremely Mild (Flat) -> Overwhelming
Average Rating
|
2.80 / 4
|
Reviews
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Displaying 11 - 20 of 95 Reviews
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 28, 2014 | Overwhelming | None Detected | Extremely Mild (Flat) | Very Strong |
"It looks like a turd, smells like a campfire, and tastes like beef jerky"
While searching for any tobacco that had "Irish" in the name, I came across GaHoCo's "Irish X", a name that made me think of a thick Irish brogue exclaiming "We dinnae land on Plymouth Rock, Plymouth Rock landed on us" or "Say it loud, yer black an prrroud". That alone prompted me to purchase this tobacco knowing nothing other than it looked like a poo.
Being that I've never knowingly smoked a turd, I was a bit overwhelmed when I received it, and immediately did what all fortunate, Internet-connected folks do when the desire overtakes them to become an expert in 4-6 minutes, I searched youtube for a video on how to prepare and smoke said turd.
Coming from the cigar world, I was expecting this nubian death stick to be sweet and creamy, not unlike a maduro cigar... but it was nothing like that at all, the smoke being mildly salty, dry, roasted beef and not a lot of complexity. The so-called "Room Note" was that of a campfire and roasted meat. As the bowl worked it's way down, it did start to sweeten up slightly but the strength of the nicotine increased with every draw. Another unfortunate side-effect of my cigar smoking days, I performed a brief and very painful French inhale, which on lighter pipe tobaccos and most cigars results in a depth of flavor that I really appreciate. This was more like subjecting the internal caverns of my bulbous nose to a small army of wallclimbing ninjas. Eventually a decent light developed and ended my need to constantly relight - allowing some better experiences in the flavor department, mostly very faint tastes reminiscent of the smell of leather, a little dried fruit, and walnuts. There was no tongue bite whatsoever. Towards the end of the pipe the room started to spin, as the nicotine content was considerably higher than anything I had experienced prior, even after a nice filling meal, I was overwhelmed.
I'll give this another try, I only have a small amount, but as of right now I'll say it's not the best thing I've ever smoked - by a long shot. It smokes cool and dry, has a unique (and not wholly unpleasant) flavor, but the flavor is consistent (from char to dottle) very single-note.
Re-Review: After giving this a second try, but changing a few variables, I have to say I can see the appeal of this tobacco (although it still isn't for me). After smoking in a very small apple-bowled meerschaum, and making sure to thoroughly rub the disks to a rough ribbon, the flavor profile (woodfire and roasted meat) didn't change much, but the harshness was greatly reduced. If you smoke this, I strongly suggest a small bowl, meerschaum if you have it, and rub it to the finest consistency you can, you will get the most out of this tobacco. I am changing my review to "Somewhat Recommended" and there it will stay. The main benefits of this tobacco remain, it is a very cool smoke, it burns very clean (no dottle and a fine ash), and it is basically the polar opposite of a sweet tobacco (these days even non aromatics are very sweet, compared to this twist).
While searching for any tobacco that had "Irish" in the name, I came across GaHoCo's "Irish X", a name that made me think of a thick Irish brogue exclaiming "We dinnae land on Plymouth Rock, Plymouth Rock landed on us" or "Say it loud, yer black an prrroud". That alone prompted me to purchase this tobacco knowing nothing other than it looked like a poo.
Being that I've never knowingly smoked a turd, I was a bit overwhelmed when I received it, and immediately did what all fortunate, Internet-connected folks do when the desire overtakes them to become an expert in 4-6 minutes, I searched youtube for a video on how to prepare and smoke said turd.
Coming from the cigar world, I was expecting this nubian death stick to be sweet and creamy, not unlike a maduro cigar... but it was nothing like that at all, the smoke being mildly salty, dry, roasted beef and not a lot of complexity. The so-called "Room Note" was that of a campfire and roasted meat. As the bowl worked it's way down, it did start to sweeten up slightly but the strength of the nicotine increased with every draw. Another unfortunate side-effect of my cigar smoking days, I performed a brief and very painful French inhale, which on lighter pipe tobaccos and most cigars results in a depth of flavor that I really appreciate. This was more like subjecting the internal caverns of my bulbous nose to a small army of wallclimbing ninjas. Eventually a decent light developed and ended my need to constantly relight - allowing some better experiences in the flavor department, mostly very faint tastes reminiscent of the smell of leather, a little dried fruit, and walnuts. There was no tongue bite whatsoever. Towards the end of the pipe the room started to spin, as the nicotine content was considerably higher than anything I had experienced prior, even after a nice filling meal, I was overwhelmed.
I'll give this another try, I only have a small amount, but as of right now I'll say it's not the best thing I've ever smoked - by a long shot. It smokes cool and dry, has a unique (and not wholly unpleasant) flavor, but the flavor is consistent (from char to dottle) very single-note.
Re-Review: After giving this a second try, but changing a few variables, I have to say I can see the appeal of this tobacco (although it still isn't for me). After smoking in a very small apple-bowled meerschaum, and making sure to thoroughly rub the disks to a rough ribbon, the flavor profile (woodfire and roasted meat) didn't change much, but the harshness was greatly reduced. If you smoke this, I strongly suggest a small bowl, meerschaum if you have it, and rub it to the finest consistency you can, you will get the most out of this tobacco. I am changing my review to "Somewhat Recommended" and there it will stay. The main benefits of this tobacco remain, it is a very cool smoke, it burns very clean (no dottle and a fine ash), and it is basically the polar opposite of a sweet tobacco (these days even non aromatics are very sweet, compared to this twist).
Pipe Used:
Corncob, Meerschaum
PurchasedFrom:
PipesandCigars.com
Age When Smoked:
Unknown (purchased 3/2014)
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Oct 10, 2012 | Very Strong | None Detected | Very Full | Strong |
I must admit, I am often overwhelmed by many of the dark ropes and twists. That doesn't in any sense mean that i don't have a few that I enjoy terribly, and even regularly, and this is amongst them..
Black Irish X is shocking far more rounded at the edges in terms of body than the brown ropes; this, of course, from being stoved somewhat, makes it a better all-around smoke in my opinion.
I never slice this cord, but rather, I sheer off about 1/2 to 3/4 in (around 1cm) of it with a pair of cigar scissors, then I gently unwrap a few strands, rolling those up to put at the bottom of my clay tavern pipe, and shove the rest of the log straight in.
After this, I use a pick to spread it out a bit on top, and light it directly. I will say up-front that this means it will easily go out, and you may need a dozen relights over the next two hours: Oh yes, this smokes cool and long.
As with ny very strong tobacco, you will want a dedicated briar for this type of rope or plug, or a clay. I prefer the latter, as I feel that the level of nicotine and tar leeched out by the clay smooths the smoke further, and this was the type of pipe around when plugs and twists were predominant, so the two mesh well together.
If you use a briar, you will need to let it rest properly, as it will sour quickly with any strong VAs. Try it however you prefer, but clay is really your best bet for the full experience.
If you have a large bowl, you will need to slice it. I find this not as enjoyable, and this is the sort of stuff that begs for a light spreading, rather than slicing, so a small opening and medium depth bowl will suit you best.
This is also a tobacco that ages exceptionally well, and you can expect to see plume develop in a couple years.
If you are not a fan of stronger tobaccos at all, then you want to stray a good distance away from this, however if you occasionally enjoy something more authentic and classical, and have had issues with being overpowered, you may wish to consider Black Irish X, as it is more mellow and easy-tempered than its cousins.
On the other hand, if you enjoy plug and rope regularly, this will be a welcomed addition to your rotation.
Black Irish X is shocking far more rounded at the edges in terms of body than the brown ropes; this, of course, from being stoved somewhat, makes it a better all-around smoke in my opinion.
I never slice this cord, but rather, I sheer off about 1/2 to 3/4 in (around 1cm) of it with a pair of cigar scissors, then I gently unwrap a few strands, rolling those up to put at the bottom of my clay tavern pipe, and shove the rest of the log straight in.
After this, I use a pick to spread it out a bit on top, and light it directly. I will say up-front that this means it will easily go out, and you may need a dozen relights over the next two hours: Oh yes, this smokes cool and long.
As with ny very strong tobacco, you will want a dedicated briar for this type of rope or plug, or a clay. I prefer the latter, as I feel that the level of nicotine and tar leeched out by the clay smooths the smoke further, and this was the type of pipe around when plugs and twists were predominant, so the two mesh well together.
If you use a briar, you will need to let it rest properly, as it will sour quickly with any strong VAs. Try it however you prefer, but clay is really your best bet for the full experience.
If you have a large bowl, you will need to slice it. I find this not as enjoyable, and this is the sort of stuff that begs for a light spreading, rather than slicing, so a small opening and medium depth bowl will suit you best.
This is also a tobacco that ages exceptionally well, and you can expect to see plume develop in a couple years.
If you are not a fan of stronger tobaccos at all, then you want to stray a good distance away from this, however if you occasionally enjoy something more authentic and classical, and have had issues with being overpowered, you may wish to consider Black Irish X, as it is more mellow and easy-tempered than its cousins.
On the other hand, if you enjoy plug and rope regularly, this will be a welcomed addition to your rotation.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Mar 11, 2001 | Very Strong | None Detected | Very Full | Extra Strong |
Pouch Aroma: Sharp and winey, this is another blend that tickles my nose with sharp, dark richness. It is sweet-smelling but uncased; a mixture of very fine Virginias with Burley added for body and nicotine content. Imagine a heady old Cabernet Sauvignon or well-aged brandy without the fruity components.
Appearance: Simply put, it is a flattened donut shape that is solid, dense and DARK brown/black. No light components at all, just a dense, oily black wad of leaves that have been rolled into a rope, twisted in some sort of cloth and bound with cord, then heated under pressure.
Packing and Lighting: I take my Swiss Army knife and slice off a small piece and rub it out so that I can see individual leaf pieces. I then use the knife to shred and chop these into managable pieces. You can also unwrap the leaves from the twist and do it this way - I doubt it matters much. This packs easily into my old Sasieni Mayfair (second) Saddle Apple that has had nothing but this tobacco smoked in it for the last 10 years or so. The bowl is small (Group 2) since that's all I can take at one time due to the intense nicotine buzz. It feels like I'm really putting a lot of leaf into such a little bowl, but it always draws easily. A pre-match draw on the pipe brings a soft, dark, heavy taste that is sweet without being sugary in the least.
For such a dense and oily tobacco, Black Irish Twist lights quite easily and gives an enormous burst of pure, strong tobacco flavor. No nuances, no subtleties, just a strong smoke. A word of warning: Don't smoke this around others unless they are VERY tolerant of strong tobacco, such as heavy Maduro-wrapped cigars. This stuff will get you thrown out of your house if SWMBO is around. I save it for special moments of deep contemplation, outside under the stars, or while walking late at night. For the right moment however, no other tobacco will do for me.
Exposition: There isn't much to discuss about this, really. It is strong and full, dark and naturally sweet and will knock you on your fanny if you try to smoke it on an empty stomach. In Ireland, I was told, the 'common folk' would chew this for a while and then place the chewed plug on a fence to dry in the sun, whereupon they would smoke it. It's a simple, basic tobacco for moments of contemplation and relaxation. Alone, mostly 🙂
The Story: This is a perfect outdoor tobacco - if I smoke inside it's easy to get overwhelmed by the density and strength. Also, if accidentally inhaled you WILL choke no matter how long you have smoked cigarettes. It burns smooth and cool and NEVER bites. It maintains its flavor to the bottom better than any other tobacco I've smoked, and if smoked slowly and with a beverage you will definately be relaxed when you finish.
Denoument: At the bottom of the bowl the nicotine level is even higher, but the flavor is still sweet and smooth and the burn is even. This leaves a nice cake - but I haven't tried breaking in a new pipe with it yet. Anyone want to send me a new Ashton to break in with this most English of tobaccos? Hmph, I didn't think so Anyway, this stuff relaxes me so much that I don't think I can type much more. Sweet, strong, clean finish and dry white ash at the bottom of the bowl. A most excellent smoke, but I think I need a nap now.
Pros: Cool-burning, sweet, smooth, thought-provoking (almost hypnotic), consistent flavor, great finish. This is a must for me to keep around, and is great for giving strength and slowing the burn of milder, less flavorful blends. Use sparingly 🙂
Cons: Nicotine level is high enough to put a novice into a coma. Must be smoked after a good meal (spicy food is best! Yum!) and in a small pipe. Will relax you to the point of near-uselessness, and is guaranteed to offend 99% of the people around you.
Appearance: Simply put, it is a flattened donut shape that is solid, dense and DARK brown/black. No light components at all, just a dense, oily black wad of leaves that have been rolled into a rope, twisted in some sort of cloth and bound with cord, then heated under pressure.
Packing and Lighting: I take my Swiss Army knife and slice off a small piece and rub it out so that I can see individual leaf pieces. I then use the knife to shred and chop these into managable pieces. You can also unwrap the leaves from the twist and do it this way - I doubt it matters much. This packs easily into my old Sasieni Mayfair (second) Saddle Apple that has had nothing but this tobacco smoked in it for the last 10 years or so. The bowl is small (Group 2) since that's all I can take at one time due to the intense nicotine buzz. It feels like I'm really putting a lot of leaf into such a little bowl, but it always draws easily. A pre-match draw on the pipe brings a soft, dark, heavy taste that is sweet without being sugary in the least.
For such a dense and oily tobacco, Black Irish Twist lights quite easily and gives an enormous burst of pure, strong tobacco flavor. No nuances, no subtleties, just a strong smoke. A word of warning: Don't smoke this around others unless they are VERY tolerant of strong tobacco, such as heavy Maduro-wrapped cigars. This stuff will get you thrown out of your house if SWMBO is around. I save it for special moments of deep contemplation, outside under the stars, or while walking late at night. For the right moment however, no other tobacco will do for me.
Exposition: There isn't much to discuss about this, really. It is strong and full, dark and naturally sweet and will knock you on your fanny if you try to smoke it on an empty stomach. In Ireland, I was told, the 'common folk' would chew this for a while and then place the chewed plug on a fence to dry in the sun, whereupon they would smoke it. It's a simple, basic tobacco for moments of contemplation and relaxation. Alone, mostly 🙂
The Story: This is a perfect outdoor tobacco - if I smoke inside it's easy to get overwhelmed by the density and strength. Also, if accidentally inhaled you WILL choke no matter how long you have smoked cigarettes. It burns smooth and cool and NEVER bites. It maintains its flavor to the bottom better than any other tobacco I've smoked, and if smoked slowly and with a beverage you will definately be relaxed when you finish.
Denoument: At the bottom of the bowl the nicotine level is even higher, but the flavor is still sweet and smooth and the burn is even. This leaves a nice cake - but I haven't tried breaking in a new pipe with it yet. Anyone want to send me a new Ashton to break in with this most English of tobaccos? Hmph, I didn't think so Anyway, this stuff relaxes me so much that I don't think I can type much more. Sweet, strong, clean finish and dry white ash at the bottom of the bowl. A most excellent smoke, but I think I need a nap now.
Pros: Cool-burning, sweet, smooth, thought-provoking (almost hypnotic), consistent flavor, great finish. This is a must for me to keep around, and is great for giving strength and slowing the burn of milder, less flavorful blends. Use sparingly 🙂
Cons: Nicotine level is high enough to put a novice into a coma. Must be smoked after a good meal (spicy food is best! Yum!) and in a small pipe. Will relax you to the point of near-uselessness, and is guaranteed to offend 99% of the people around you.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 01, 2017 | Strong | Very Mild | Full | Strong |
The rope came a little moist with an oily appearance, and I sliced it into thin coins on a cutting board in the kitchen. The pouch note is grilled meat with a little sweet tobacco in the note. The rope is a pretty uniform black with a few flecks of brown in the cross section.
I rubbed out coins and was careful not to pack them to tightly due to the moisture. I did not dry it any. It took some BTU's to get it burning, but it smoked well and did not require an unusual number of relights. Pipe cleaners came out with an oily, tarry residue.
The flavor in general was different. It was strong and unlike anything I have ever smoked. The best description is probably when you have your gas grill up a little high, and the fat from a steak is burning. It is meaty, oily, earthy and full with a bitter, slightly tarry edge when puffed. The flavors intensified a little as the bowl progressed, but otherwise stayed constant through the bowl. The flavor as I said was very different, but it is oddly compelling. I did not taste any Lakeland flavors.
The nicotine is strong in this one. It is not overwhelming., but you should be aware of what you are getting into when you load a bowl.
This is a high quality and tasty rope. It is unlike other things you have smoked. I recommend it unless you have a nicotine aversion and stick to lighter fare. The taste will either work for you or not, and that is not going to be easy to predict. I am claiming that 1Q and Captain Black smokers might do best skip this one.
I rubbed out coins and was careful not to pack them to tightly due to the moisture. I did not dry it any. It took some BTU's to get it burning, but it smoked well and did not require an unusual number of relights. Pipe cleaners came out with an oily, tarry residue.
The flavor in general was different. It was strong and unlike anything I have ever smoked. The best description is probably when you have your gas grill up a little high, and the fat from a steak is burning. It is meaty, oily, earthy and full with a bitter, slightly tarry edge when puffed. The flavors intensified a little as the bowl progressed, but otherwise stayed constant through the bowl. The flavor as I said was very different, but it is oddly compelling. I did not taste any Lakeland flavors.
The nicotine is strong in this one. It is not overwhelming., but you should be aware of what you are getting into when you load a bowl.
This is a high quality and tasty rope. It is unlike other things you have smoked. I recommend it unless you have a nicotine aversion and stick to lighter fare. The taste will either work for you or not, and that is not going to be easy to predict. I am claiming that 1Q and Captain Black smokers might do best skip this one.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 09, 2016 | Strong | None Detected | Very Full | Tolerable to Strong |
Gawith Hoggarth - Black Irish x.
Strong, but not stupidly so. Albeit, I love it..... I just make sure I don't inhale any as I can be somewhat of a lightweight with N!
As is often the case with some of the ropes, it's held too much moisture inside it, so after slicing I suggest an airing period.
I don't find the smoke to be very complex in flavour. If you're after something with an intricate taste, I'd suggest smoking something different. The taste from Black Irish X is simply the fired Virginia's; this is where I find the smoke can become acrid if it's taken in bug puffs; I take it in smaller ones for optimum enjoyment.
I do find myself having to make sure the windows are wide opened and the door's shut on the room I'm piping in, otherwise my house needs fumigating; that's the only low point for me.
This won't be a blend for everyone, it's quite potent. But me though, I love it!
Four stars.
Strong, but not stupidly so. Albeit, I love it..... I just make sure I don't inhale any as I can be somewhat of a lightweight with N!
As is often the case with some of the ropes, it's held too much moisture inside it, so after slicing I suggest an airing period.
I don't find the smoke to be very complex in flavour. If you're after something with an intricate taste, I'd suggest smoking something different. The taste from Black Irish X is simply the fired Virginia's; this is where I find the smoke can become acrid if it's taken in bug puffs; I take it in smaller ones for optimum enjoyment.
I do find myself having to make sure the windows are wide opened and the door's shut on the room I'm piping in, otherwise my house needs fumigating; that's the only low point for me.
This won't be a blend for everyone, it's quite potent. But me though, I love it!
Four stars.
Pipe Used:
Morgan Blackjack
PurchasedFrom:
Black Swan
Age When Smoked:
New
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 18, 2015 | Very Strong | Very Strong | Very Full | Strong |
Wow what a punch! Irish X is not for the faint of heart or novice smoker. I've been smoking a pipe for over 30 years and found this tobacco to be stout and full just like Brown twist and coconut twist. You really, really need to take your time smoking this to enjoy it and identify some of the complexity of this tobacco and avoid an upset stomach from the nicotine hit.
I have found that twist style of tobacco's need a good hour or so drying time after rub out. You may also find this is key in unlocking some of the flavor and complexity of this tobacco. This blend like all twist tobacco is designed to be either chewed or smoked. I cannot emphasize enough......TAKE YOUR TIME with this smoke. Let it dry out well, light her up and sip gently! I'm a quick smoker and find it takes me close to an hour or more to enjoy a bowl of Black Irish X. And if you dare, cut a quarter inch chunk and park it between your cheek and gum. Sweet smokes gentlemen.
I have found that twist style of tobacco's need a good hour or so drying time after rub out. You may also find this is key in unlocking some of the flavor and complexity of this tobacco. This blend like all twist tobacco is designed to be either chewed or smoked. I cannot emphasize enough......TAKE YOUR TIME with this smoke. Let it dry out well, light her up and sip gently! I'm a quick smoker and find it takes me close to an hour or more to enjoy a bowl of Black Irish X. And if you dare, cut a quarter inch chunk and park it between your cheek and gum. Sweet smokes gentlemen.
Pipe Used:
Briar
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Jan 03, 2014 | Strong | None Detected | Mild | Tolerable to Strong |
I don't understand how anybody can smoke this stuff! It tastes like burning trash and only got worse the more i tried to smoke it. If you are looking for a trash fire with lots of spunk than this is for you. I don't even know what to do with this horrid tasting chunk of hell i purchased, other than toss it out.
PurchasedFrom:
www.pipesandcigars.com
Age When Smoked:
New
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| Jun 14, 2010 | Strong | None Detected | Full | Strong |
This is a smoooooth smoke.
Yes, the flavours and texture of the smoke are both full and rich and yes, it contains nicotine (but not in the HUGE doses some would have you believe). And I can see how the combination of these factors is overwhelming to some but I find it an abolutely delicious experience.
There are no fake flavourings to muddy your encounter with the top class leaf which forms this oily black coil.
Laid on a solid chopping board, a sharp knife will slice perfect roundlets of tobacco which rub out easily and require little if any drying time. Being in a rope seems to keep this stuff alive for longer (in terms of moisture) so you can buy it in large amounts without worrying that it's glory will have faded before you get a chance to smoke it.
The taste is, as some have commented, vaguely reminisant of engine oil (but in a good way)although the meatiness others have mentioned, I experience somehow more in the texture of the thick plumes of creamy rich smoke than in the taste. There is a slight background sweetness, as in a strong malt beer, which is enough to give interest and depth to the flavour without becoming overpowering or cloying.
This is a Tobacco's Tobacco. If it were human it would be 6'2" have a thick beard, wear check shirts and possess the kind of chest which makes you stand back a few paces if you want to see it all at the same time, it wouldn't speak much but everyone would know when it did and it's hands would be thick and rough from a hard days graft. But it wouldn't punch you without enduring the kind of provocation that would leave most people in the hospital. This tobacco would never steal your wallet and it would give up it's seat for a lady...I don't really know where I'm going with this anymore...
It's strong and plain (but not boring) and I absolutely could not get it to bite, at all. I honestly don't know why everyone doesn't love this stuff. You need to try it, even if it's just once.
Yes, the flavours and texture of the smoke are both full and rich and yes, it contains nicotine (but not in the HUGE doses some would have you believe). And I can see how the combination of these factors is overwhelming to some but I find it an abolutely delicious experience.
There are no fake flavourings to muddy your encounter with the top class leaf which forms this oily black coil.
Laid on a solid chopping board, a sharp knife will slice perfect roundlets of tobacco which rub out easily and require little if any drying time. Being in a rope seems to keep this stuff alive for longer (in terms of moisture) so you can buy it in large amounts without worrying that it's glory will have faded before you get a chance to smoke it.
The taste is, as some have commented, vaguely reminisant of engine oil (but in a good way)although the meatiness others have mentioned, I experience somehow more in the texture of the thick plumes of creamy rich smoke than in the taste. There is a slight background sweetness, as in a strong malt beer, which is enough to give interest and depth to the flavour without becoming overpowering or cloying.
This is a Tobacco's Tobacco. If it were human it would be 6'2" have a thick beard, wear check shirts and possess the kind of chest which makes you stand back a few paces if you want to see it all at the same time, it wouldn't speak much but everyone would know when it did and it's hands would be thick and rough from a hard days graft. But it wouldn't punch you without enduring the kind of provocation that would leave most people in the hospital. This tobacco would never steal your wallet and it would give up it's seat for a lady...I don't really know where I'm going with this anymore...
It's strong and plain (but not boring) and I absolutely could not get it to bite, at all. I honestly don't know why everyone doesn't love this stuff. You need to try it, even if it's just once.
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 12, 2014 | Strong | None Detected | Very Full | Pleasant to Tolerable |
This tobacco is unlike anything I've ever smoked, not just because its a twist, but because of its unique flavor. You'll see everyone point out its very distinguishable meaty flavor (very beefy in my opinion) and thats really all you'll taste as you smoke it. The beefy flavor is really straight forward and i don't taste much else while i smoke it. Its a very delightful smoke when you're in the mood for something heavy, savory, and also for a bit of a buzz.
out of all the virginias i smoke this one is a one of a kind. in my opinion, its not an everyday smoke. its a great tobacco when you want the heaviness and bold taste and smell that this stuff gives off. i won't guarantee that those around you will be a fan of the room note, especially nonsmokers. i consider it more of a private smoke. i know a lot of people who don't like this tobacco so i will say its not for everybody.
the only problem I've run into with it is keeping it lit. i may not be drying it out enough but I've smoked it in slices and by unwinding the rope and packing like a ribbon cut. either way, I'm constantly having to relight (which isn't much of a big deal) unless I'm constantly drawing on it. I've had better luck smoking it unwound than in medallions with that being said. so definitely let it dry out a bit.
overall, pretty delicious and a delightful experience if you're an adventurous smoker. i say give it try no matter what you like.
out of all the virginias i smoke this one is a one of a kind. in my opinion, its not an everyday smoke. its a great tobacco when you want the heaviness and bold taste and smell that this stuff gives off. i won't guarantee that those around you will be a fan of the room note, especially nonsmokers. i consider it more of a private smoke. i know a lot of people who don't like this tobacco so i will say its not for everybody.
the only problem I've run into with it is keeping it lit. i may not be drying it out enough but I've smoked it in slices and by unwinding the rope and packing like a ribbon cut. either way, I'm constantly having to relight (which isn't much of a big deal) unless I'm constantly drawing on it. I've had better luck smoking it unwound than in medallions with that being said. so definitely let it dry out a bit.
overall, pretty delicious and a delightful experience if you're an adventurous smoker. i say give it try no matter what you like.
Pipe Used:
GBD bent bulldog 549
PurchasedFrom:
smokingpipes
| Reviewed By | Date | Rating | Strength | Flavoring | Taste | Room Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 07, 2014 | Strong | None Detected | Full | Tolerable |
I enjoy the occasional rope, twist and strong tobacco, especially those from Gawtih Hoggarth. When it comes to Black Irish X, there is good and not so good here for me personally. The good is that it delivers the strength that I had expected. It burns very cool and it is one very smooth tobacco. The bad is pretty simple, I am not a fan of the burnt flavor. It’s as simple as that. While I enjoy strong blends, Lady N isn’t at the top of my list of “must haves.” First and foremost, I have to like the flavor. I just don’t care for the flavor of this one verses others of the genre. I do think that Black Irish X should be on the “must try” list for all lovers of ropes, twists and strong flakes.
Age When Smoked:
New
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