Essential Information
Tobacco Specifications
- Tobacco Name: Hampton House Sasquatch Blend
- Manufacturer: Hampton House
- Blend Type: Medium-Full English
- Cut: Mixed cut (ribbon, cube, and rough-cut Latakia)
The Experience
First Impressions
Opening the tin releases a deep, smoky aroma that immediately sets the tone. The Latakia dominates, bringing a scent reminiscent of campfires and aged leather, but underneath, there are hints of citrus from the Virginias, subtle spice from the Turkish Izmir, and a faint dark fruitiness from the Perique.
The tobacco itself is a striking mix of colors and textures. Dark, almost black ribbons of Latakia contrast with the brighter Virginias, while the cube-cut Burley adds density and structure. The moisture level is nearly perfect for smoking straight from the tin, though a brief drying period can enhance combustion.
The Smoke
Packing and Lighting
With its combination of cuts, Sasquatch Blend benefits from a light-handed packing method. The softer Latakia and Cavendish allow for easy compression, but the cube-cut Burley adds resistance. A gravity-fed fill with gentle tamping provides the best results.
The initial lighting is smooth and even, releasing an immediate wave of woodsmoke and spice. The ember holds well, and after a few tamps and relights, the tobacco settles into a steady, consistent burn.
Initial Flavor
The first few puffs introduce a balance between sweet and smoky. The Virginias provide a mild citrusy brightness that contrasts with the heavier Latakia, while the Turkish Izmir contributes a dry, slightly sour spice. The retrohale carries an incense-like aroma with a leathery undertone.
Mid-Bowl Complexity
As the bowl progresses, the blend begins to reveal its deeper character. The nutty presence of the Burley becomes more pronounced, complementing the smoky Latakia. Perique emerges in the background, adding a mild peppery tingle and a touch of fermented fruit.
There’s an interplay between richness and subtle sweetness. The Virginias take on a toasty, caramelized quality, while the Turkish Izmir rounds out the flavor with a light, herbal spice. The blend remains cool and well-behaved, rewarding slow, measured puffs.
Final Third and Finish
In the last stage of the bowl, the flavors intensify. The Latakia deepens, bringing an almost charred wood flavor, while the Perique’s peppery character lingers more prominently. The Cavendish helps to smooth out the stronger elements, preventing any sharpness from creeping in.
The finish is long and satisfying, leaving behind a warm, smoky aftertaste. A final sip through the stem carries hints of dark cocoa and aged oak.
Room Note
Sasquatch Blend leaves a lingering scent of woodsmoke and spice in the air. It has the bold presence of a traditional English mixture, though the sweeter elements from the Virginias and Cavendish soften the overall impression.
Strength and Nicotine
The blend sits firmly in the medium-full range. The nicotine content is noticeable but well-balanced, making it satisfying without becoming overwhelming. Smoked at a relaxed pace, it delivers a fulfilling experience without any harshness.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
Sasquatch Blend is a carefully crafted English mixture that brings together strength and nuance. The Latakia takes center stage, but the supporting elements of Virginia, Turkish Izmir, Burley, and Perique all contribute to a well-rounded experience.
Each smoking session offers subtle variations, especially given the fluctuating Latakia content between batches. This unpredictability adds an element of intrigue, making each tin slightly different while maintaining the blend’s overall profile.
Smoking Experience
The blend performs well in a variety of pipes, though larger bowls allow the flavors to evolve more fully. Smoked outdoors on a crisp evening, it pairs beautifully with the cool air, enhancing the campfire-like qualities of the Latakia.
Pairings
- Peaty Scotch or Islay whisky
- French press coffee or dark-roast espresso
- Oak-aged stout or porter
Similar Blends
- G.L. Pease Quiet Nights – similar depth with a slightly more Oriental-forward profile
- Balkan Sobranie (Vintage) – another Latakia-heavy blend with complex layering
- Samuel Gawith Balkan Flake – bolder, darker, and more flake-oriented
Recommendations
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Who Should Try It:
- Fans of full-bodied English blends with a rich Latakia presence
- Smokers who appreciate evolving, layered flavors throughout a bowl
- Those looking for a satisfying evening smoke with complexity
Who Should Avoid It:
- New pipe smokers or those who prefer mild aromatics
- Anyone sensitive to nicotine or strong smoky flavors
- Those who dislike variations in batch consistency
Final Verdict
Sasquatch Blend stands out as a bold, engaging, and rewarding smoke. It captures the essence of a classic English mixture while offering enough variation to keep each bowl interesting. Smokers who enjoy rich, smoky blends with depth will find this to be an excellent addition to their collection.
