Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Essential Information
Tobacco Specifications
- Tobacco Name: Long Cutt English
- Manufacturer: CloudBear
- Blend Type: English
- Cut: Long Cut
The Experience
First Impressions
A fresh tin of CloudBear Long Cutt English crackles open, releasing an aroma that fills the room with campfire warmth. The Latakia announces itself first—thick, smoky, and seasoned with the deep scent of charred wood. But this isn’t a Latakia-dominated brute; the Samsun Turkish Oriental introduces a sweetly spiced, almost incense-like undertone, while the toasted Izmir adds a roasted nuttiness that teases the senses. Red Virginia rounds it all out, offering a rich, baked-bread sweetness that lingers just beneath the smoky layers.
Visually, Long Cutt English lives up to its name—ribbons of dark Latakia tangle with ruddy Virginia and the mottled browns of the Orientals, all cut into long, elegant strands. The tobacco is springy to the touch, neither too moist nor dry, making for effortless packing.
The Smoke
Packing and Lighting
The long-cut ribbon format allows for a structured pack that stays aerated, ensuring an even burn. Lighting is a straightforward affair; a quick char light settles the top layer, and after a second true light, the bowl takes off smoothly. No fuss, no excessive relights—just effortless ignition leading into a rewarding session.
Initial Flavor
The first puffs envelop the palate in warm, billowing Latakia smoke, but this is no one-note campfire experience. The steam-pressed Latakia here is softer than the Cypriot powerhouse blends—its smokiness is rich but refined, slightly creamy. The Samsun Turkish Oriental swiftly introduces a whisper of spiced earth and dry tea leaves, bringing an exotic contrast to the campfire backdrop.
A few sips later, the toasted Izmir makes its entrance, weaving in a subtle nuttiness. There’s a touch of sweet charred bread, courtesy of the Red Virginia, which tempers the richness and adds depth without overshadowing the Orientals.
Mid-Bowl
As the ember settles into the heart of the bowl, Long Cutt English opens up beautifully. The Latakia is still present but integrated, allowing the Orientals to dance through the smoke in delicate, shifting waves. The Samsun’s spice and the Izmir’s roasted sweetness alternate in prominence, keeping the experience engaging.
The Red Virginia continues to support the blend’s structure, adding a touch of raisin-like richness that keeps the Latakia from running away with the show. Puff slowly, and the Virginia’s natural sugars caramelize into an aged, honeyed warmth.
A surprising highlight of this mid-bowl is how clean and layered the flavors remain. Unlike some English blends that muddy together into a singular smoky mass, Long Cutt English maintains a distinct character for each tobacco component, a testament to CloudBear’s blending artistry.
Finish
As the smoke dwindles into its final quarter, the flavors mature and condense. The spice from the Samsun and the toastiness of the Izmir soften, becoming slightly creamy, while the Latakia deepens into a richer, leathery undertone.
The Red Virginia lingers the longest, leaving behind a caramelized bready sweetness that haunts the aftertaste. There’s no harshness, no ashy bitterness—just a warm, mellow farewell.
Room Note
Pleasantly smoky with a touch of old-world nostalgia. It’s the aroma of an evening spent by a wood-burning fireplace, infused with hints of Eastern spices. Those who enjoy classic English blends will find it comforting, while those unfamiliar with Latakia might find it a bit bold but intriguingly mysterious.
Strength
Medium-to-full bodied, but exceptionally balanced. The steam-pressed Latakia ensures smoothness, while the Orientals prevent any single note from becoming overwhelming. Nicotine is moderate, enough for a relaxing evening smoke without becoming overpowering.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
CloudBear’s Long Cutt English is an achievement. It takes the foundation of a classic English blend and refines it into a layered, sophisticated smoke. Rather than hitting the smoker over the head with brute-force Latakia, it allows each component to breathe—the spiced Samsun, the nutty Izmir, the caramelized Red Virginia. Every puff evolves, keeping the smoker engaged.
Smoking Experience
- Perfect for slow, contemplative smokes—it unfolds gradually, revealing new dimensions as the bowl progresses.
- Excellent burn quality—a clean, consistent experience with minimal relights.
- No bite, no rough edges—just pure refinement and balance.
Pairings
- Drink Pairing: A strong Earl Grey tea accentuates the Oriental spiciness, while a peaty Islay whisky like Lagavulin 16 enhances the Latakia’s smokiness.
- Time of Day: Best in the evening, when its complexity can be appreciated without rush.
Similar Blends
- GL Pease Quiet Nights – A slightly darker, richer English blend with a more prominent Latakia presence.
- Esoterica Penzance – Shares a velvety smoothness but is harder to find.
- Samuel Gawith Balkan Flake – More intense, but similarly well-integrated.
Recommendations
Rating: (5/5)
Long Cutt English is a must-try for English blend enthusiasts. It achieves the holy grail of balance and depth, making it a true connoisseur’s smoke.
Who Should Try It
- Fans of nuanced, balanced English blends
- Smokers who enjoy complexity over raw Latakia punch
- Those who appreciate Oriental tobaccos in a supporting but essential role
Who Should Avoid It
- If you’re looking for an intense Latakia bomb, this may feel too refined.
- Those who dislike any hint of smokiness in a blend.
Additional Notes
At the time of writing, only 4 packages remain. If you’re considering this, act fast—this blend’s limited supply means it won’t be on shelves for long.
Final Verdict: A masterfully balanced English blend that belongs in any enthusiast’s collection.
