Royal Twist

Royal Twist is one of Mac Baren's blends built on the rope (spun cut) tradition. Select Virginia leaves, dark-fire-cured Kentucky, and Perique are hand-twisted into a rope, rested for weeks, and sliced into thin coin shapes; the naturally sweet whole-leaf Virginia is used as the outer wrap. The brand name dropped off the list in the 1960s due to joint trademark issues, and was later reintroduced in a limited run in 100-gram tins, said to be based on the original recipe.

In the smoke, Virginia's sweet, tangy base, Kentucky's smoky, woody tone, and Perique's spice evoking dried plum and pepper follow one another. Suited to those seeking an unflavored, full but not excessive character, and to experienced smokers used to rubbing out and drying coin cuts before smoking.