Tavern Tobacco Co. McCraigan's Flake Review

Tavern Tobacco Co. McCraigan's Flake is a Virginia/Latakia blend manufactured by Samuel Gawith. The blend contains Latakia and Virginia as its main contents, presented in a flake cut. It comes in 50 - gram tins and also in bulk packaging. This product is from the United Kingdom, but it is no longer in production.

When it comes to Tavern Tobacco Co. McCraigan's Flake, the preparation of the flakes is notable. The flakes are well - prepared and perfectly lined up in the tin, ready for smoking. The moisture level is just right, unlike some other flakes that need time to dry out. For example, it doesn't have the excessive moisture issue that Laurel Flake has. This proper moisture allows the tobacco to burn right down to the bottom of the pipe.

In terms of flavor, Tavern Tobacco Co. McCraigan's Flake offers a straightforward yet enjoyable experience. It has good Latakia with Virginias interplaying throughout the smoke. The aroma is rich, especially the smell of Cyprian Latakia which is quite prominent when you open the vacuum - sealed pouch. The Latakia is so dominant that only those who really like Latweed can fully appreciate this flake. The Virginia's presence is not easily recognizable as a distinct flavor until about mid - bowl. Before that, the blend offers a mix of sweetness, fruitiness from the Virginia, and a smooth, creamy, natural tobacco taste similar to a fine cigar. The Virginia adds sweetness to the Latakia, and there is also a tangy fruitiness in the first half of the bowl.

The moisture content of Tavern Tobacco Co. McCraigan's Flake is perfect. It is not as moist as some other flakes and not too dry either. This makes it easy to pack and smoke. The flake size is about 1"x6"x1/16", and it is pliable, which also helps in the packing process.

For pipe selection, a Mastro de Paja 1B full - bent sandblast that has only smoked GawHogg Mixture No. 12 is a good match. Compared to GawHogg Mixture No. 12, McCraigan's Flake has a more obvious Latakia flavor. It is also one of the most forgiving flakes to smoke and is less likely to bite the tongue.

However, different people have different opinions. Some think it is just okay, not great, and needs to be dried a lot. Others don't like it as much as other Latakia blends and find it lacking in flavor. But for those who love Latakia and flakes, Tavern Tobacco Co. McCraigan's Flake is definitely worth a try.