Robert McConnell Scottish Cake

Scottish Cake or Scottish Fake?

I've had the most the most bizarre experience with this tin, purchased one year ago from a German retailer.

When I opened it two days ago, I expected to be greeted by the raisins and molasses etc everybody is talking about here. Instead, vinegar. Sour-sweet, like balsamico, not pleasant in any case. However, I packed a small pipe, went for a walk, and was pleasantly surprised - nice, mellow Kentucky rounded up by sweet Virginia. No bite, gentle. No noticeable Perique either, but I didn't care, it was nice.

The next day, I noticed that the smell had improved, more sweet less sour, and that the flakes were darker. I packed a bigger pipe this time, expecting a better taste too, but after a while I realized... there was nothing there anymore! No Kentucky, no Virginia, no nothing, just like water steam! A faint memory of Kentucky earthiness from time to time, nothing else...

I thought: maybe it's me. Wrong day. My taste buds are on strike. Went there again this morning with the small pipe: same result. Emptiness. Where once was taste, now is a gazing black hole of nothingness. It burns well, no bite, no gurgles, but no taste and no aroma either!

So, I don't know what to think. Especially considering the reviews here. Maybe if I keep it there in the box a few months, it will improve. Maybe it's good for mixing with things that are too strong and need to be watered down. Right now though, I just feel like I want my money back.

UPDATE: Yes, it can be used to tame more rustic things such as Italian Comune with satisfying results. I would perhaps buy it again for 5-6 euros, but not for 9, certainly not for 19 (Italian ludicrous price)...