Samarra

Samarra is a mixture in which matured red Virginia carries the structure and a fine sweetness, joined by a generous measure of Cyprus latakia for smoky richness, fragrant Oriental leaf for fullness, and a small amount of perique. It is among the first blends offered under the G. L. Pease name, described as a reworking of the Sublime Porte blend Pease produced while working at Drucquer & Sons.

Despite the high latakia proportion, the blend is not a latakia showcase; the weight is shared between Virginia's structure and the Oriental leaf's exotic aroma. In the smoke, notes of earth, bread, smoky wood, tart lemongrass, floral, and dry grass are reported. It suits smokers seeking the classic structure with a not-too-heavy body.