Manufacturer Description:
Four different Virginia varieties and a portion of delicate, slightly tart Oriental tobacco are pressed and fermented together with a traditional, subtly fruity fig casing, then stored to mature. A classically inspired flake that burns slowly, offering a cool smoke and a gently sweet flavor.
Characterisation:
Flake Number 2 comes in a round tin, wrapped in a paper rosette. Lifting the top layer reveals a light-brown flake featuring streaks of medium-brown marbling and light-yellow inclusions. There is hardly any residual moisture, yet Flake Number 2 exudes a slightly alcoholic, sweet aroma reminiscent of dried fruit. Thanks to its consistency, the flake can be plugged into the pipe immediately after opening the tin.
Plugging:
Since Flake Number 2 contains very little residual moisture, it is difficult to plug it into the pipe using the classic "bend and fold" method. It is easier to pack it after rubbing it out to the desired consistency. When doing so, choose a pipe that isn't too small; start by packing loosely at the bottom and gently increase the pressure as you work your way up.
Light up:
This is where the dry consistency of Flake Number 2 works to its advantage. The fibers catch the flame quickly. If you then smooth the surface slightly with the tamper, you can light the filling evenly with a second flame.
Smoking properties:
When smoked, Flake Number 2 proves surprisingly smoky for an aromatic blend. Notes of hay and wood are also perceptible, though it is difficult to determine whether they originate from the Virginia or the Oriental leaf; essentially, this is a blend with a fundamentally spicy character. If one smokes the tobacco at a leisurely pace, a floral nuance emerges in the background—vaguely reminiscent of Irish blends—accompanied by a flavoring note that brings fig cookies to mind. Both elements persist evenly throughout the smoke without ever becoming overpowering. A relight may be required occasionally, but the flavor does not suffer as a result. Finally, the small amount of light, flaky ash left behind makes cleaning up very easy.
Redolency:
While the Oriental tobacco content is not overly noticeable in the room, Flake Number 2 is only lightly flavored—a characteristic that is also perceptible in its aroma. Consideration for non-smokers is therefore advisable.
Conclusion:
Flake Number 2 is a light-colored flake with slightly darker marbling. Its dried-fruit aroma comes from the flavoring used; however, this is applied so subtly that the base tobaccos take center stage. Alongside the hay notes typical of Virginia, there are hints of wood that combine to create a smoky spiciness. Subtle floral undertones—reminiscent of Irish-flower and fig cookies—also drift through the smoke. While Flake Number 2 may require an occasional relight, it is generally low-maintenance. It is quite suitable for casual smoking, provided one pays a little attention. The unusual combination of gentle flavoring and robust base tobaccos is sure to win over even those smokers who usually steer clear of flavored blends.
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with friendly support of Dennis Hübel
