Balkan Sasieni

Balkan Sasieni is a Balkan mixture with roughly a century of history. The blend was born in London; according to records it is produced today in Denmark and sold mainly in the American market. Its structure holds Macedonian and Black Sea Orientals, red virginia, and plenty of Cyprus latakia. It is presented ribbon cut in 50-gram tins, with no casing applied.

On opening the tin, the latakia scent dominates; the tobacco arrives moist and may need airing. On the smoke, latakia is abundant and pronounced but does not cover the other leaves: behind it come the virginia's sweetness and the orientals' bitter, spicy tone. Packing and lighting are easy, the ash stays light gray; harshness increases as the bowl progresses and may cause slight tongue bite in sensitive smokers. Suited to smokers seeking the classic Balkan structure where latakia leads without upsetting the balance.