Savinelli Brunello Flake

The tin note of Brunello Flake offers up some type of fruity note but does not overwhelm the blend & adds a tasty flavor to the smoke. My palate must be more sensitive than others because this seemed to bite a little bit initially but tamed down after a few tokes. I don't get the strawberry aroma that some have mentioned but definitely some type of fruit topping... I don't have a strawberry handy to compare. However, my olfactory glands might require a little maintenance or fine tuning.

The top note is very lightly applied but noticeable while smoking & there's a mild taste of honey in the blend... reminded me a little of Bit O' Honey candy. Virginia is the lead guitarist in the group while Oriental plays second fiddle & Burley plays a little rhythm & at the halfway juncture, the trio was in perfect unison & started playing better as the varietals melded together and the tobacco flavors began dancing to the beat as Topper started hitting the minor notes. At that point, any single flavor of the varietals became indistinguishable and the band played in perfect harmony.

Brunello Flake requires a number of relights & burns fairly cool & slow. It can be a relaxing all day smoke. It is quite tasty & leaves a lingering sweetness on the palate & I think Brunello Flake is a pretty darn good "semi-aromatic" tobacco. It is much better a couple of months after breaking the seal. However, after a few years of age, I feel it will bring out more sweetness, less harshness & without doubt, will be a smoother, more enjoyable smoke. I bought one extra tin to cellar. Three & one half stars.