Dark Star

Dark Star is an unflavored flake blend of darkened Virginia leaves in McClelland's Personal Reserve series. The slices come quite moist and tightly packed; separating and packing them into a pipe takes experience. Records indicate that airing the slices thoroughly and partially rubbing them out before packing significantly eases both loading and burning.

In the smoke, the near-black leaf's mild sweetness stands out along with spiced touches; the tobacco burns cool and long. Though nicotine dose looks light in a small pipe, it reaches a satisfying level in a medium-sized bowl. Given the preparation difficulty, it isn't a blend for those new to the pipe; it's aimed at smokers who know how to handle dark Virginia flakes. The brand closed in 2018.