Laurel Heights

Laurel Heights is a blend in Pease's Fog City Selection line, built on ripe, dark red Virginias. A very small amount of latakia is mixed into the base; this leaf is used not to build a smoky layer but to add depth to the Virginias. Records note it was designed for smokers who love unstoved dark Virginia.

The smoke carries a natural sweetness; notes of orange peel, toasted oats, leather, and something turf-like are reported. The smoke grows richer as the bowl progresses, leaving a malt- and grapefruit-like sharpness at the finish. It is a good record for those wanting a straightforward Virginia character that doesn't veer into syrupy intensity.