Black Duck

Black Duck is a ribbon-cut English mixture where burley and black cavendish are set atop Latakia and Oriental leaf. Using burley rather than Virginia as the base sets the blend apart from most English mixtures: the sweetness comes from a nutty, earthy place rather than a fruity one. Black cavendish adds a round layer that softens Latakia's smoke.

In strength it sits between medium and hearty, with flavor intensity above its strength. It shows a structure where the layers shift through the bowl, with Latakia not staying constantly in front. Because of its moist cut, it is sensitive to packing and lighting habits. It suits smokers who want smoke and spice but prefer a burley body over Virginia sweetness.