The Mad Mr. Pease
Say I’m having a bowl and I asked you to guess what I was smoking. Those of you who know me would instantly guess “Haddo’s Delight” by G.L. Pease right?
Well, 9/10 times you’d be correct. Now, while Haddo’s Delight is certainly my favorite of his...there is another blend by Pease that Isn’t talked about as much and it needs to be. The tobacco I’m referring to is Sixpence. Haddos and Sixpence are the only two tobaccos that have remained in my rotation for years despite my ever changing tastes. I’d like to take this time to talk about each and why they’ve kept the top spot on my favorites list year after year.
Both are classified as Virginia Periques yet they honestly couldn’t be more different. I’ll begin with Haddo’s. From a bare bones perspective, it’s a ribbon cut blend of Black Cavendish, Burley, Virginia, and Perique. Upon opening the tin you’ll immediately notice two things. First, the earthy smell of chocolate and fruit. After taking your face out of the tin (we all do it, don’t deny it) you’ll notice how beautiful the blend itself is. Dark and light, the tobacco is very pleasing visually. Once smoking for a while the you’ll begin to taste a more of the fruit notes however it’s not too sweet. Think of dried fruits like raisins instead of crisp sweet apples. This flavor is paired with a deep spiciness that is always there but never overpowering. All in all it makes for a well rounded satisfying smoke that is easily something to go for any hour of the day.
Now, let’s move on to Sixpence.
A broken flake of Dark Fired Kentucky, Virginia, and Perique this blend is bold and mysterious. After cracking the tin I immediately get hints of wine, pepper, and bread. After lighting up you’ll notice all the flavors listed are still present however the bread taste is the post powerful aspect. Towards the end the spicy notes will become more intense but not too much so. This blend for me personally is not for any time of the day. Its for that special time of the evening where you can finally relax, have a pipe and escape into your own head. The only advice I’d give on storing this tobacco is this- it dries quickly so jar it as soon as possible.
That’s all for now. I genuinely hope if you haven’t tried one or ether of these you might consider doing so now.
