It's been great really getting to know a few pipes, and get to know a few types of tobacco lately, and this has to be one of the more "component rich" Virginia-based mixtures I've dove into lately. My morning smoke is usually something subtle and simple, which isn't the same as "tame" or "bland" or any nonsense like that.

VA Memory #10 was sent to me by Shane (and, thanks again, Brother, if you haven't heard that enough ) and in flavor profile, was right in line with what I've been craving lately, especially in the morning.

It doesn't smell like much as-is, just fresh, sweet, cut tobacco. It's light in color and chunky. First lights bring on a spicy, savory tongue and nose, sage-like, hints of cumin and even...chicken? It's really an interesting blend. There's an earthy richness, likely from the cigar component, and it's meaty in every sense of the word. Midway through, a little sweetness develops, but more on the fragrant/nasal end than up-front on the tongue. Like smelling fruit blossoms of some kind. It stays this way, meaty, savory with a tad bit of sweetness throughout the bowl. It's dynamic, but it's also a little sharp. While it lacks grassy or lemon notes common to lighter Virginias, there's a "young" and fresh flavor--it's satisfying, but one has to wonder what a few years might do for this stuff.

Great out of the tin fresh, moderate DGT and Lady "N," easy to pack, easy to light, easy to smoke: it's another Oulette success that would be ideal for Virginia lovers (and those interested in cigar components, ala yours truly). A perfect candidate for cellaring, but will treat you at any stage in the process--which is something a lot of "needs age" tobaccos can't do so well.

Got a tin of this somewhere. Need to open it and git 'er done.....





Cheers,

RR

I bought a tin about three months ago and decided to wait a year before opening. I'll report on it when that time comes. I think this will be a winning blend.