Fall 1997 Volume I Issue 2

What to smoke is really a partial question, the rest of which is where and when to smoke it. In the Maven's Choices that follow, TBTM (The Beloved Tobacco Maven) will suggest at least some parameters to measure a tobacco's suitability to your tastes. Try small amounts of different tobaccos for different occasions. Manufacturers (bless them) would like you to smoke their brand exclusively, but remember, you're not getting married - brand fidelity is not a mandated virtue. With pipe tobacco, a bit of hanky-panky pays!
Mac Baren Virginia No. 1
Virginia No. I is a mild golden pressed "cake" that has been "ready rubbed," i.e. broken out into smaller pieces. With a light, natural taste that reminds TBTM of an ideal cereal grain served for breakfast in tobacco paradise, Virginia No. 1 is enhanced by a very light top dressing suggestive of honey and brown sugar. We learned of an executive of a leading competitor to Mac Baren who will only smoke Mac B's Virginia No 1. Quite a tribute to be a pro's vade mecum.

Who: Pipesters with a bit of experience: Virginia has a "tang" that neophytes may confuse with "bite."
When: A tasty all day smoke with a very pleasant tobacco-like room aroma. Light on the palate, so some may want a fuller taste after a rich meal, in which case try Mac Baren's "Mixture."
Where: Great stuff outdoors. Indoors, "rub out" to a slightly finer consistency.
How: Packed firmly in a larger bowl. Should be smoked slowly for best flavor.

Who: Cigar smokers who favor claro or light EMS wrappers will like the "off the bowl" aroma reminiscent of Connecticut wrapper.
When: TBTM prefers Standard Mixture late afternoons or after dinner. Aroma is pungent, not harsh.
Where: Definitely indoors. Too subtle for rough stuff.
How: Small to medium pipe, packed in gradually increasing firmness. Do not press too tight on this ribbon cut, or it won't draw well. Tamp after first lighting and re-light evenly.

Who: New or experienced smokers.
When: Day long, fades after heavy fare.
Where: Indoors because the finer cut will accelerate the burn outdoors, and the subtle and gentle mellowness will be lost.
How: Pack gradually, like a mixture, looser on the bottom, moderately firm on top, in a medium sized pipe.

Who: Seasoned smokers who like Honduran cigars with medium to dark wrappers.
When: Later in the day and certainly after dinner.
Where: Indoors or out, but will taste harsh if it burns too fast.
How: Pack gradually, increasing firmness towards the top. Smoke slowly for best flavor.