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Essential Information
Tobacco Specifications
- Tobacco Name: CloudBear White Buffalo
- Manufacturer: CloudBear
- Blend Type: Burley/Virginia/Cavendish
- Cut: Ribbon
The Experience
First Impressions
Tin Note
Cracking open the tin, a warm and inviting aroma rises immediately—deep, rich, and layered. The Brown Burley offers an unmistakable scent of cocoa and dark-roasted coffee beans, setting a sturdy foundation. From the White Burley, there’s a milder, airy nuttiness, akin to crushed walnuts freshly shelled. The Yellow Virginia contributes a brighter contrast, weaving in strands of golden hay and a subtle citrus zest, like a fresh-cut orange peel left to dry in the sun. Finally, the Toasted Cavendish rounds it all out, adding a creamy, almost caramel-like sweetness, smooth and alluring. Together, these elements create an aroma that suggests both depth and refinement, a blend carefully composed rather than thrown together haphazardly.
Appearance
The tobacco itself is a harmonious mosaic of colors. The White and Brown Burley dominate the mix, presenting themselves in hues of deep chestnut and light golden brown. The Yellow Virginia adds lighter, sun-kissed strands that catch the eye, while the Toasted Cavendish, darker and almost black in some pieces, weaves its way through like shadows in dappled sunlight. The cut is a well-prepared ribbon, neither too chunky nor too fine, promising easy packing and an even burn.
The Smoke
Packing and Lighting
The well-balanced ribbon cut allows for effortless packing. A gentle tamp is enough to ensure a proper draw, and the blend takes to the flame easily. The Toasted Cavendish, with its natural moisture-retaining properties, ensures a slow and steady ignition. A single charring light, followed by a proper tamp and second ignition, is all that’s needed before the bowl settles into a consistent, even smolder.
Initial Flavor
From the first puff, a smooth, nutty character asserts itself, led by the White Burley. It’s mild yet structured, like a well-brewed breakfast coffee—strong enough to be noticed, yet soft on the palate. The Brown Burley quickly follows, deepening the experience with hints of unsweetened cocoa and a whisper of dark-roasted nuts. The Yellow Virginia plays in the background, brightening the edges of the smoke with a faint citrus twang, like the zest of a sun-ripened fruit. The Toasted Cavendish works quietly but effectively, mellowing any rough edges, smoothing out the texture like a thin layer of warm cream drizzled over the flavors.
Mid-Bowl
As the bowl progresses, the flavors meld beautifully. The Brown Burley takes center stage, bringing a bolder, richer presence. Its cocoa-like depth is more pronounced now, with a slight bitterness that keeps things interesting. The White Burley continues to provide a solid foundation, but the Yellow Virginia and Toasted Cavendish begin to take on a more prominent supporting role. The Virginia’s tangy, grassy sweetness peeks through a little more, while the Cavendish contributes a whisper of vanilla-like warmth. The smoke remains dry and satisfying, with no hint of bite even when puffed a little more aggressively.
Finish
As the bowl nears its final third, the smoke becomes slightly more robust, the Brown Burley lending a deeper, almost leathery undertone. The Yellow Virginia has softened, its citrusy brightness fading into a more subtle sweetness. The Toasted Cavendish lingers as a smooth, almost honeyed finish, leaving behind a warm, pleasant aftertaste. By this point, the blend has reached its full expression—rich, earthy, and subtly sweet, with just enough complexity to keep the smoker engaged until the last embers fade.
Room Note
The room note is mild and inoffensive, a pleasant mixture of nutty warmth and subtle sweetness. The Burley tobaccos dominate, giving off a rich, toasty aroma reminiscent of a well-aged cigar humidor, while the Toasted Cavendish adds a gentle, creamy scent that lingers softly in the air. This is a blend that won’t overpower a room, making it a solid choice for both solitary reflection and social settings.
Strength
Medium in both nicotine and body, CloudBear White Buffalo is a well-balanced smoke that can be enjoyed at any time of day. It’s mild enough for a morning pipe but carries enough depth and nuance to remain interesting into the evening.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
Overall Impression
CloudBear White Buffalo is a well-crafted blend that offers a smooth, engaging smoke with just enough complexity to keep it interesting. The interplay of Burley, Virginia, and Cavendish is well-executed, creating a balanced experience that never feels overwhelming. The flavor remains steady throughout, offering a satisfying mix of earthy, nutty, and subtly sweet notes.
Smoking Experience
A cool, even burn with no bite, a pleasant room note, and a consistently enjoyable flavor profile make this a highly approachable blend. It’s versatile enough for both casual puffers and more experienced smokers looking for a relaxed yet flavorful experience.
Pairings
- Beverages: Black coffee enhances the nutty depth; a mild bourbon highlights the sweetness of the Cavendish.
- Setting: A crisp autumn morning, a fireside evening, or a quiet moment on the porch.
Similar Blends
- Mac Baren Golden Extra – Another Burley-forward blend with a slight sweetness.
- Cornell & Diehl Old Joe Krantz – More robust but shares some of the same earthy characteristics.
- Carter Hall – A classic, milder alternative with similar Burley and Cavendish interplay.
Recommendations
- Rating: (4/5 Stars)
- Who Should Try It: Anyone who enjoys a Burley-forward blend with a smooth, creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Perfect for both experienced smokers and newcomers looking for a refined yet accessible blend.
- Who Should Avoid It: Those who prefer Latakia-heavy English blends or highly aromatic tobaccos may find this one too mild. If you’re looking for a bold, nicotine-heavy powerhouse, this may not fully satisfy.
Final Verdict
CloudBear White Buffalo is a well-balanced, easy-smoking blend that offers earthy depth, mild sweetness, and a creamy finish. While it may not be the most complex blend on the market, it provides a satisfying, no-fuss smoke that many will find appealing. Definitely a solid choice for an all-day, go-to tobacco.
