Rattrays Red Rapparee Pipe Tobacco (Tin)

Red Rapparee is a real hidden gem amongst tobaccos and simply oozes quality. The cut is a mixture of shredded ribbon and what looks like broken/cut flake that combine so the pipe almost seems to pack itself, it really is a joy. The moisture is perfect for smoking straight out of the tin and the tobaccos seem to have some age on them compared with the way too young Dunhill offerings of late. As to flavour, I would put it bang in the middle between Dunhill Early Morning Pipe and Gawiths Balkan Mixture, as in it has the quality of EMP but all of the flavours are a little more pronounced and the Cavendish adds a little more depth and body making this suitable for all day smoking. As the bowl burns down the flavour edges towards the Balkan Mixture but for me the finish is not as bold or harsh, just really satisfying. This really is a delightful smoke, the Virginias are quality and the Turkish/Oriental leaf add a sweet spicy tang with the Latkia in the background, never overpowering. All these ingredients seem to remain separate somehow, not in a bad way but in a way that lets each flavour drift in and out, shining in its moment then returning to the background allowing others their go, as such, no two bowls are ever quite the same. Complex, mystifying and very satisfying, what more could you ask for? Also this stuff gets better with age, if you can jar some for a few months/years you will be rewarded with something that can only be described as sublime.