Drucquer & Sons Levant Mixture

Essential Information

Tobacco Specifications

• Tobacco Name: Levant Mixture
• Manufacturer: Drucquer & Sons (blended by Gregory Pease, produced by Cornell & Diehl)
• Blend Type: Balkan
• Cut: Ribbon Cut

The Experience

First Impressions

Tin Note

The moment you pop open the tin, a bold and earthy aroma wafts up, enveloping the senses. It’s a complex bouquet: the unmistakable smokiness of Latakia dominates, underscored by the exotic spice and floral undertones of Turkish Orientals. A gentle sweetness from the Virginias lingers, creating an alluring contrast.

Appearance

The tobacco itself is a rich mosaic of dark Latakia strands, golden Turkish ribbons, and a subtle sprinkling of medium-brown Virginias. The cut is uniform, promising an easy pack and burn. The presentation feels deliberate, hinting at the thoughtful blending process behind this mixture.

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The Smoke

Packing and Lighting

Levant Mixture’s ribbon cut makes packing a breeze. It compresses evenly into the bowl without clogging airflow, providing a balanced draw. Lighting reveals its exceptional quality: the initial charring light establishes a smooth and steady burn, and a second pass of the flame ensures an effortless start to your session.

Initial Flavor

From the first puff, the boldness of Latakia takes center stage, offering a campfire-like smokiness layered with earthy richness. The Turkish Orientals quickly join the performance, their spicy and slightly sour notes adding a vibrant complexity. Beneath it all, the Virginias offer a subtle sweetness that ties the bold elements together.

Mid-Bowl

As the bowl progresses, the blend reveals its depth. The smokiness mellows slightly, allowing the Orientals to shine with their dry, herbal, and slightly woody nuances. A faint citrus-like brightness occasionally peeks through, likely from the Virginias, keeping the profile lively. The flavors remain well-balanced, with no single component overpowering the others.

Finish

The final third of the bowl is an exercise in harmony. The smokiness deepens but remains smooth, while the Turkish Orientals continue to provide a subtle spice. The sweetness of the Virginias has almost caramelized, offering a warm and satisfying conclusion. The burn remains consistent, leaving a clean ash and no dottle behind.

Room Note

The room note is undeniably Balkan: smoky, robust, and earthy. While it’s not a crowd-pleaser like a sweet aromatic, it has a refined, almost incense-like quality that enthusiasts will appreciate.

Strength

Levant Mixture is firmly in the medium-to-strong category. The nicotine hit is present but not overwhelming, making it a suitable choice for smokers who enjoy a fuller-bodied experience.

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Final Thoughts

Overall Assessment

Overall Impression

Levant Mixture is a masterful representation of the Balkan style. Its balance of smoky Latakia, spicy Turkish Orientals, and sweet Virginias creates a nuanced and rewarding smoking experience that caters to seasoned smokers.

Smoking Experience

This blend is a joy for slow, contemplative sessions. Its complexity unfolds beautifully over time, making it an excellent choice for long, undisturbed moments of reflection. While it requires some attention to appreciate its layers fully, it is forgiving in terms of burn and pack.

Pairings

For a complementary experience, consider pairing Levant Mixture with:

• A peaty Scotch whisky, such as Laphroaig or Ardbeg
• Black coffee or espresso, for a bold flavor pairing
• Dark chocolate, which enhances the tobacco’s smoky and sweet elements

Similar Blends

• G.L. Pease’s Quiet Nights: A similarly rich and contemplative blend.
• Samuel Gawith’s Squadron Leader: Lighter but still in the Balkan tradition.
• Dunhill’s Nightcap: Offers a comparable full-bodied experience.

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Recommendations

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Levant Mixture earns high marks for its complexity, balance, and luxurious smoking experience. The only reason it falls just short of perfection is its intensity, which may deter milder-blend enthusiasts.

Who Should Try It

This is a must-try for fans of Latakia-heavy Balkan blends or those seeking a bold, full-bodied tobacco with a refined profile.

Who Should Avoid It

New smokers or those who prefer lighter, sweeter blends may find Levant Mixture overpowering. It’s also not ideal for those sensitive to strong room notes.

Additional Notes

Aging potential is excellent. Cellaring this blend for six months to a year will likely enhance its complexity, smoothing out any sharp edges and deepening its flavors.

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Drucquer & Sons Levant Mixture is a testament to the artistry of blending. With its rich history, impeccable balance, and luxurious profile, it remains a standout choice for the discerning pipe smoker.