Billy Budd
A strong Latakia blend refined with Burley, Bright Virginia Flake and a generous amount of naturally cut cigar leaf. A creation komposed in honor of Cornell & Diehl's late friend, Sailorman Jack, Billy Budd features a powerful body.
Characterisation:
The company's signature small, round tin of Billy Budd is opened with a ring-pull closure and can then be closed again with a plastic lid. However, if the tobacco does is not consumed quickly, you should transfer it to an airtight container. The mixture is made up of dark and black-brown fibers that are cut shorter but rather wide. Very large golden and chocolate brown flake pieces are added in. A sweet, smoky scent arises from the mix. Reminiscent of autumn, it reveals the Latakia used. The moisture content is so balanced - despite the different ingredients - that you can plug the Billy Budd immediately after opening the tin.
Plugging:
If you crush the coarse flake pieces a little and pay attention to their requirements, the Billy Budd can be plugged easily. In a pipe that is not too small and with not a lot of pressure, you can achieve a filling that is enjoyable until the end.
Light up:
Even the flake pieces in the Billy Budd mixture barely rise under the first flame. With the tamper you just have to smooth the surface a little. Then use a second flame to create an even glow.
Smoking properties:
The Billy Budd is immediately lush and smoky. The cigar leaf is always noticeable, has a certain weight, but is by no means intrusive. It flavors the smoke with leather and peat. Even the Virginia shows dark notes of savory bread, while the Latakia contributes astringent, fine incense aromas in the background. The flavor spectrum is not exceptional and yet when you smoke it you are reminded of a strong Islay malt. The powerful Billy Budd is composed just as balanced as a fine Scotch. Strong, but not overwhelming. Straightforward, but never boring. Since the burning is uncomplicated, you can also “sip” the Billy Budd like a good drink. A little fine, gray-brown ash with a few unburned crumbs is all you need to clean up at the end.
Redolency:
Latakia and cigar leaf create an intense aroma in the room. You should keep this in mind if you don't want to smoke Billy Budd on an autumn walk or alone, but in company.
Conclusion:
The dark Billy Budd, interspersed with coarse, golden-brown flake pieces, smells of autumn. There are also heavy tones in the smoke. Dark bread can be found alongside ethereal incense as well as the leathery peat notes that are also known from strong whiskeys. The spicy cigar leaf plays the main role here, not overwhelming, but strong. Something to like. From espresso to the whisky in question, as well as a sumptuous dessert, there are a number of things that are suitable as a companion, but Billy Budd is not necessarily recommended on an empty stomach. It is better suited for a leisurely evening after work or even a walk later in the year when the leaves are reddening. Either way, the Billy Budd will offer a balanced but unusual experience that is sure to make an impression, especially for expirienced lovers of strong blends with Latakia.
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