Rare Breed

Rare Breed is a Latakia-centered English mixture in the pipe tobacco line of Gurkha, a brand better known for cigars. The ribbon-cut blend is built from red Virginia, white Burley, Turkish-Oriental leaf, and a small amount of Perique, joined by Cyprian Latakia; the tin note leads with a smoky, dark-fruit air. It carries no topping or top note.

On the palate, Latakia's measured smoke, the Oriental leaf's spicy-tart edge, and Virginia's light sweetness advance together, while Perique leaves a fruity depth in the background. Since nicotine stays light to medium, it's a suitable option for smokers new to Latakia mixtures as well as those looking for a milder English blend. Offered in sealed 50-gram tins.