J.F. Germain & Son’s Eighteen Twenty

Essential Information

Tobacco Specifications

• Tobacco Name: Eighteen Twenty
• Manufacturer: J.F. Germain & Son
• Blend Type: English
• Cut: Ribbon

A Journey Through History

The Legacy of J.F. Germain & Son

J.F. Germain & Son is one of the most revered names in the pipe tobacco world, boasting a history that spans more than two centuries. Established in 1820 on Jersey, one of the British Channel Islands, the company has been a cornerstone of tobacco craftsmanship. Here are some notable milestones:

• Early Years: Situated near the harbor in St. Helier, the original Germain factory thrived during the golden age of maritime trade, exporting blends globally.
• Generational Expertise: The art of blending has been passed down through generations of the Germain family, with each era refining the process.
• Iconic Collaborations: Germain has produced legendary blends, including Balkan Sobranie in the 1920s and Esoterica Tobacciana blends like Penzance and Stonehaven in the 1980s.
• Small Batch Production: Known for their limited availability, Germain blends are sought after worldwide, a testament to their reputation for quality.

Manufacturing Philosophy

J.F. Germain & Son maintains a commitment to artisanal methods. Their process includes small-batch production, traditional curing methods, and selective distribution, ensuring that every blend reflects the company’s dedication to excellence. While this limits their production capacity, it solidifies their reputation for quality over quantity.

The Experience

First Impressions

Tin Note

Opening the tin reveals a tapestry of aromas. Latakia’s smoky, campfire-like essence dominates, creating a bold introduction. The Orientals contribute a spicy, floral complexity, reminiscent of incense and dried herbs. Meanwhile, the Virginias bring balance with a mild, honeyed sweetness that tempers the other tobaccos.

Appearance

The ribbon cut showcases Germain’s craftsmanship, blending deep black Latakia strands with golden and brown Virginias and Orientals. The occasional variance in moisture content is typical for Germain blends, but allowing the tobacco to dry slightly before packing resolves this minor issue.

The Smoke

Packing and Lighting

Eighteen Twenty’s ribbon cut is easy to work with, whether you favor a loose fill or the three-layer method. Lighting is smooth, requiring minimal relights after the initial charring. A steady tamp ensures an even burn, allowing the flavors to unfold with precision.

Initial Flavor

From the first draw, the Latakia takes center stage, delivering a robust smokiness with leathery undertones. The Orientals quickly follow, introducing spiced wood and subtle floral accents. Beneath this, the Virginias provide a soft sweetness and hints of hay, grounding the blend.

Mid-Bowl

As the bowl progresses, the Latakia mellows slightly, allowing the Orientals to shine. Their spicy, herbal notes evoke images of sun-drenched hillsides. The Virginias’ citrusy brightness adds depth, while the smoke itself becomes creamier and smoother. This stage showcases the blend’s complexity, with each puff offering something new.

Finish

The final third is where Eighteen Twenty fully comes into its own. The Latakia resurges, adding a rich smokiness, while the Virginias maintain a sweet, mellow undertone. The bowl burns cleanly to a fine, white ash, a testament to the blend’s quality.

Room Note

Eighteen Twenty’s room note is quintessentially English: smoky and slightly herbal, with an earthy undertone. While not universally loved, it has a nostalgic charm that appeals to enthusiasts of traditional blends.

Strength

With a mild to medium strength, Eighteen Twenty is an accessible English blend suitable for all-day smoking. Its balance ensures it is neither overwhelming nor underwhelming.

Final Thoughts

Overall Assessment

Craftsmanship in Every Bowl

Eighteen Twenty exemplifies Germain’s mastery of the blending arts. The seamless integration of Latakia, Orientals, and Virginias creates a smoke that is as balanced as it is complex. Each component plays its role perfectly, making for a harmonious smoking experience.

Smoking Experience

From the first light to the last puff, Eighteen Twenty provides a journey of evolving flavors. Its consistent burn and smooth profile make it a pleasure to smoke, while its moderate strength ensures versatility for various occasions.

Pairings

This blend pairs exceptionally well with beverages that complement its profile, such as lapsang souchong tea, a peaty single malt scotch, or even a rich dark-roast coffee. Each enhances the blend’s natural smokiness and depth.

Similar Blends

Fans of Eighteen Twenty may also enjoy Samuel Gawith’s Skiff Mixture or Esoterica Tobacciana’s Penzance. Both share similar Oriental-forward characteristics with their own unique nuances.

Recommendations

Rating

3.5/5 stars
While Eighteen Twenty impresses with its complexity and balance, minor issues such as occasional moisture inconsistencies and its limited availability prevent it from achieving a higher rating.

Who Should Try It

This blend is ideal for those who enjoy traditional English mixtures and are looking for a nuanced, moderately strong option. It’s especially suited for pipe smokers who appreciate Oriental-forward profiles.

Who Should Avoid It

Those who dislike Latakia’s smoky aroma or prefer aromatics may find this blend outside their taste range. Its limited production may also be a drawback for those seeking an everyday tobacco.

Additional Notes

Eighteen Twenty benefits from slight drying before packing. Aging it in a jar will enhance its flavors further, rewarding patience with even greater depth and harmony.

This detailed review captures the essence of J.F. Germain & Son’s Eighteen Twenty, offering a comprehensive overview of its rich history, meticulous craftsmanship, and enjoyable smoking experience.