I very recently added a tin of MacBaren Mixture: Scottish Blend to my larder. Before ordering I read over many, many reviews to try and get a handle on it. My only concern is perhaps the most frequently mentioned issue...the mandatory slow smoking cadence to both bring out the best flavor profile and avoid a promised blistering tongue bite.
I also read quite a number of comments indicating that the following things can help avoid the tongue bite thing.
1. You have to pack it “right”. OK - I’m game...but the correct way to pack it is never spelled out except for one or two mentions of the Frank method. Hmmm. Any actual experience with a loading technique that results in a reduced likelihood of bite?
2. Smoking it in a Cob was mentioned a fair number of times as being an effective bite prevention measure. Is this true? It sounds so easy.
Aside from the bite thing...I read in several sources comments recommending that one should dedicate a Briar to Mixture in order to get the best out of it. Comments?
Lastly...Many blends are known to do their best in one or more specific bowl shapes...bowl geometry. Any thoughts on this issue?
The Scottish Mixture is a long standing classic with the highest reputation. It is pretty universally adored, or at least appreciated. I’d just like to maximize my odds of having the best possible experience. Yeah, I know it’s selfish but that’s just the way I am.
I also read quite a number of comments indicating that the following things can help avoid the tongue bite thing.
1. You have to pack it “right”. OK - I’m game...but the correct way to pack it is never spelled out except for one or two mentions of the Frank method. Hmmm. Any actual experience with a loading technique that results in a reduced likelihood of bite?
2. Smoking it in a Cob was mentioned a fair number of times as being an effective bite prevention measure. Is this true? It sounds so easy.
Aside from the bite thing...I read in several sources comments recommending that one should dedicate a Briar to Mixture in order to get the best out of it. Comments?
Lastly...Many blends are known to do their best in one or more specific bowl shapes...bowl geometry. Any thoughts on this issue?
The Scottish Mixture is a long standing classic with the highest reputation. It is pretty universally adored, or at least appreciated. I’d just like to maximize my odds of having the best possible experience. Yeah, I know it’s selfish but that’s just the way I am.