Rose of Latakia

Rose of Latakia is a McClelland blend in which, despite its name, Latakia doesn't take the lead. The dry leaf consists of short ribbons ranging from dark brown to black; the tin note carries the brand's usual tangy, vinegary sharpness. In the mixture, stoved and matured Virginia leaves sit atop a measured amount of Oriental tobacco, with Syrian Latakia staying in the background.

The smoke sits on the lighter side of medium; it runs along a sweet-and-tart axis, occasionally giving notes reminiscent of toasted sourdough bread, orange peel, and oolong tea. Suited to smokers who find Latakia-heavy English blends too much and who like a tangy Virginia character. McClelland closed in 2018.