Essential Information
Tobacco Specifications
- Tobacco Name: Simply Red Cake
- Manufacturer: Watch City Tobacco Co.
- Blend Type: Virginia
- Cut: Crumble Cake
The Experience
First Impressions
Opening the tin of Simply Red Cake feels like unveiling a treasured relic. A faintly moist crumble cake greets you, its texture yielding easily under the fingers. The aroma is a melody of sun-kissed hay, caramelized sugar, and a whisper of dried fruit—a characteristic hallmark of well-aged red Virginias. Its appearance is equally appealing, with reddish-brown hues interspersed with golden strands, resembling the glowing embers of a dying fire. The moisture content is nearly perfect, requiring no additional drying, and its uniformity speaks to meticulous craftsmanship.
The Smoke
Packing and Lighting
Breaking off a portion of the cake, the tobacco crumbles with a satisfying ease. It packs snugly into the bowl without resistance, signaling a smoke free from frequent relights. The first draw after ignition reveals a deliberate attention to detail—the blend ignites evenly, producing a soft, bluish-white smoke.
Initial Flavor
The opening puffs are a delightful introduction. Notes of sun-ripened grain and brown sugar dominate, with a slight tanginess that dances across the palate. The sweetness is natural, never cloying, and carries a sense of refined simplicity that is simultaneously rich.
Mid-Bowl
As the ember settles, the tobacco’s complexity begins to shine. The caramel sweetness deepens, giving way to hints of baked bread and citrus zest. There’s a warm, almost woody undertone that provides a pleasant counterbalance. Each puff reveals a harmonious interplay of flavors, coaxing the smoker to savor the moment.
Finish
The final third of the bowl intensifies in richness, the smoke growing creamier as it progresses. Subtle earthy undertones emerge, rounding out the experience without overpowering the inherent sweetness of the Virginias. The smoke remains cool to the last ember, leaving behind a clean ash indicative of high-quality leaf.
Room Note
The room note is light and agreeable, with a faint sweetness lingering in the air. It’s the sort of scent that draws curious inquiries from onlookers, as it evokes a nostalgic warmth.
Strength
Simply Red Cake falls squarely into the medium range in terms of strength. It’s gentle enough for beginners but complex enough to hold the attention of seasoned smokers.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
Overall Impression
Watch City Tobacco Co. has crafted a gem with Simply Red Cake. Its natural sweetness and balanced flavor profile make it an accessible yet rewarding blend.
Smoking Experience
The consistent burn and absence of bite ensure a pleasurable smoke every time. While not the most complex Virginia blend, it provides enough nuance to keep each bowl engaging.
Pairings
Simply Red Cake pairs beautifully with a morning coffee or a lightly spiced tea, both of which accentuate its caramelized sweetness. For evening sessions, a dry white wine or a mild ale complements its subtle citrus notes.
Similar Blends
- McClelland 5100 Red Cake: Slightly richer, with more pronounced tanginess.
- Sutliff 515 RC-1: A lighter take with heightened citrus.
- Cornell & Diehl’s Opening Night: Offers a similarly balanced Virginia profile with a more robust body.
Recommendations
Rating
3.5/5 Stars
Who Should Try It
- Enthusiasts exploring Virginia blends.
- Smokers seeking a smooth, medium-bodied experience.
- Those interested in aging tobaccos to explore potential depth.
Who Should Avoid It
- Smokers seeking high nicotine strength.
- Fans of heavy or highly complex blends.
Additional Notes
Simply Red Cake offers room for aging. Cellaring could amplify its sweetness and deepen its flavor complexity, making it a worthy addition to a long-term rotation.
This review captures the essence of Simply Red Cake while guiding enthusiasts toward informed smoking choices. The 3.5-star rating reflects its merits and areas for improvement, ensuring readers approach this blend with the right expectations.
