Characterisation:
Since the round tin of Westminster can only be closed with a plastic lid once the ring-pull closure has been opened, the tobacco should be poured into an airtight container. At least if you want to store the longer and frizzy Loose Cut. The medium, light and dark brown tobaccos exude a sweet autumn fire scent in which the orientals dominate. Even when it is freshly opened, the Westminster is not too damp to be plugged immediately.
Plugging:
The Loose Cut of the Westminster requires little effort when plugging, so you can start loose at the bottom and gently tighten towards the top. Here, however, it is important to find out with a little practice how much pressure is actually necessary in order to avoid re-igniting more frequently.
Light up:
The Westminster can be lit without any problems. You should still make a little effort: After the first flame, you press the surface lightly with the tamper and then fire again, which creates an even bed of embers.
Smoking properties:
The Westminster lives up to its name, as it shows itself to be a typical English tobacco right from the start. It's easy and cool to smoke, and once you've stacked it carefully with a bit of experience, you don't have to relight it often. But it forgives this without sacrificing taste. Above all, it is smoky and spicy. The Latakia shows a clear note of incense, while the Oriental contributes a bittersweet earthiness. This is rounded off by the enigmatic Virginias, which have a softening effect with toasted bread and a very delicate natural sweetness. The ash that remains is fine and light-colored and easy to clean thanks to the hardly any condensate that occurs.
Redolency:
The room note of the Westminster is natural and both the contained Latakia and the Oriental could disturb society that is not used to it. But the tobacco is also well suited to be smoked in the fresh air.
Conclusion:
The Westminster is a Loose Cut in which the different shades of brown mix evenly. But the cold scent already reveals the dominance of the oriental tobaccos. While the Virginias contribute rounding roasted aromas and fine sweetness, Latakia and Oriental show up with smoky spice and dark bittersweet notes. The smoldering behavior requires some attention when preparing, but overall the Westminster can be smoked with relish, especially by more experienced smokers. Lovers of English blends will appreciate the strong tobacco, especially at a later hour.
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with friendly support of Dennis Hübel
