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Essential Information
Tobacco Specifications
- Tobacco Name: Evening Pipe
- Manufacturer: CloudBear Custom Blends
- Blend Type: English-style
- Cut: Ribbon
The Experience
First Impressions
Appearance
Evening Pipe immediately impresses with its visual appeal. The ribbon-cut tobaccos present a balanced mix of golden Flue-cured Virginia, mahogany Red Virginia, and dark, velvety Black Cavendish. Toasted Izmir takes the lead among the Orientals, contributing a warm, nutty depth, while Basma provides smaller flecks of floral and citrus brightness. A light sprinkling of Perique hints at subtle spice to come.
Tin Note
The aroma from the tin is inviting and complex. Flue-cured Virginia offers a grassy, citrusy sweetness, while Red Virginia deepens the scent with its rich, caramelized character. Toasted Izmir exudes a roasted, nutty warmth, and Basma adds floral and tangy highlights. The Black Cavendish ties these elements together with a creamy sweetness, while Perique introduces a faint peppery note that adds intrigue.
The Smoke
Packing and Lighting
Packing
Evening Pipe’s ribbon cut makes it easy to pack into the bowl. Its even texture ensures a smooth, consistent fill, and its springiness allows for just the right amount of resistance, promoting excellent airflow.
Lighting
Lighting the blend is straightforward. The Flue-cured Virginia ignites quickly, setting the stage for a harmonious burn. The toasted Izmir’s roasted nuttiness emerges with the charring light, alongside the creamy undertones of Black Cavendish. Once fully lit, the blend burns steadily and coolly, requiring minimal relights.
Initial Flavor
From the first puff, Evening Pipe establishes its identity as a nuanced and sophisticated blend. Toasted Izmir takes center stage with its warm, nutty character, while Basma’s floral and citrusy accents add brightness. The Flue-cured Virginia introduces a lively grassy sweetness, balanced by the Red Virginia’s caramel-like richness. Black Cavendish provides a smooth, creamy undertone that softens the sharper edges, while Perique contributes subtle peppery bursts that enliven the flavor profile.
Mid-Bowl
Flavor Evolution
As the bowl progresses, Evening Pipe deepens in complexity. The toasted Izmir remains the dominant note, its roasted character becoming more pronounced. Basma steps forward, offering delicate floral and tangy highlights that complement the richness of the Virginias.
Virginias in Focus
The Virginias evolve mid-bowl, their sweetness intensifying. The Flue-cured Virginia’s citrusy brightness mellows into a honeyed sweetness, while the Red Virginia develops a molasses-like depth that adds richness. Black Cavendish continues to provide a velvety texture, ensuring a smooth and luxurious experience. The Perique’s spice punctuates the blend intermittently, keeping the palate engaged.
Finish
Final Notes
In the last third, Evening Pipe reaches its peak. Toasted Izmir anchors the experience with its nutty, roasted character, while the Virginias contribute a lingering sweetness that feels caramelized and slightly toasted. Basma recedes, leaving a gentle floral backdrop, and the Black Cavendish ties everything together with its creamy consistency. Perique becomes slightly more noticeable, adding a warming spice that enhances the blend’s satisfying finish.
Burn Quality
The burn remains steady and cool to the very end, leaving behind a fine gray ash with no dottle. This clean finish speaks to the blend’s quality and careful construction.
Room Note
Evening Pipe’s room note is warm and inviting. The toasted Izmir and Black Cavendish create a nutty, slightly sweet aroma, balanced by the grassy brightness of the Virginias and the floral hints of Basma. The Perique’s spice adds subtle complexity, making it appealing to seasoned smokers while remaining approachable for newcomers.
Strength
Evening Pipe is medium in strength. Its nicotine content satisfies without overwhelming, making it a versatile choice for both experienced smokers and those transitioning to more complex blends.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
Evening Pipe by CloudBear Custom Blends is a masterfully balanced blend that earns a 5 out of 5 stars rating. Toasted Izmir is the star of the show, delivering a warm, roasted nuttiness that sets the tone for the blend. Basma’s floral brightness, the sweet complexity of the Virginias, the creamy smoothness of Black Cavendish, and the subtle spice of Perique all work together in perfect harmony.
Smoking Experience
Ideal Occasions
Evening Pipe is best enjoyed during quiet, reflective moments. Its evolving flavors and smooth, steady burn make it an excellent companion for evenings by the fire or contemplative mornings. Medium to large bowls allow its complexity to fully develop, ensuring a luxurious and satisfying experience.
Recommended Pairings
- Beverages: A rich dark roast coffee, a honeyed bourbon, or a robust black tea pair beautifully with Evening Pipe’s sweetness and depth.
- Atmosphere: Ideal for relaxed evenings, whether spent alone with a book or with friends in conversation.
Similar Blends
- Peterson Early Morning Pipe: A Virginia-forward blend that shares some sweetness but lacks the roasted complexity of toasted Izmir.
- GL Pease Chelsea Morning: Offers a similar Oriental focus but with a lighter, more floral touch.
- Savinelli 140th Anniversary: Another smooth blend, though with less emphasis on roasted and nutty notes.
Recommendations
- Who Should Try It: Smokers who enjoy nuanced English-style blends without Latakia will appreciate Evening Pipe’s balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and subtle spice.
- Who Should Avoid It: Those seeking bold, smoky Latakia blends may find this too gentle.
- Aging Potential: Evening Pipe is excellent fresh but has strong potential for aging. Allowing it to rest will further meld its components, enhancing its already harmonious balance.
CloudBear Custom Blends has crafted a remarkable blend with Evening Pipe. It is more than just a tobacco—it is an experience, crafted for those who appreciate the artistry of fine pipe tobacco blending. Highly recommended.
