Katerini Classic (Grand Orientals)

Katerini Classic is one of the blends in McClelland's Grand Orientals series that spotlights a single Oriental leaf variety. Oriental tobacco grown in Greece's Katerini district comes from the same seed origin as the series' other members, Samsun and Black Sea Sokhoum; the distinction largely comes from the region where it's grown. The mixture is ribbon cut and unflavored; Virginia is used only to build a sweet base.

In the smoke there's a lighter body than Samsun, a dry, cigarette-like taste, and a deep-seated sweetness. Joined by a more measured version of the olive-oil-like, spicy tone that stands out in Yenice Agonya. Kept low on nicotine, this structure suits those wanting to get to know Oriental leaf on its own and those seeking a light daytime smoke. The series was discontinued along with McClelland's 2018 closure.