Original Oriental

Original Oriental is a coarse-cut blend in which Oriental-Turkish tobaccos come forward, joined by Virginia, black Cavendish, and a small amount of Perique. Latakia is not mentioned in the product description, but the smoky layer in the smoke points to this leaf's presence. No casing is applied, and an intense raw-tobacco scent comes when the tin is opened.

In the first quarter it gives the impression of a classic English blend; then the Oriental leaf's spicy, exotic taste comes forward. As the smoke progresses, the black-pepper sharpness from the Perique becomes noticeable in the throat and the blend hardens slightly. Even so, the overall character is sweet and mild, and the ash stays clean. Since it burns easily, it needs a tight pack. Aimed at those seeking Oriental-tobacco-forward blends.