Modern Virginia Flake

Modern Virginia Flake is Mac Baren's product presenting its Virginia-forward blend in pressed slice form. Per the stated ratio, roughly seventy percent of the blend is made up of two Virginia types: light-colored and dark leaves from different countries. To this, twenty percent black Cavendish made by the maker from Virginia leaf, called "Modern Cavendish," and ten percent Burley are added. Burley is used to balance the sweetness and cut Virginia's tendency to burn hot. The blend carries a light top note reminiscent of ripe fruit.

For the slices, the tobacco is pressed into a block and rested for at least thirty days before cutting; the cut flakes are hand-packed so they don't break. In the smoke, hay and dried-fruit tones like raisin and fig come forward. Nicotine level is measured and the burn is cool. Suited to those who like Virginia character but want a somewhat milder smoke than fully unflavored blends.