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Essential Information
Tobacco Specifications
- Tobacco Name: Hampton House Oriental with Anise
- Manufacturer: Hampton House
- Blend Type: Virginia/Perique/Oriental
- Cut: Ribbon
The Experience
First Impressions
Tin Note
Cracking open the tin reveals an aroma that is at once familiar and exotic. The Red and Bright Virginias deliver a deep, fermented sweetness, reminiscent of sun-dried figs and ripe orchard fruits, with a slight tang of citrus zest. A richer, earthier presence follows—courtesy of the White Burley—bringing to mind the scent of toasted hazelnuts and dark cocoa. Then, a sharper note emerges, unmistakably from the Izmir Turkish, carrying an incense-like quality, warm and slightly smoky, as though one had wandered into a spice merchant’s stall in an old-world bazaar.
And finally, there it is—the anise. Not overpowering, but gently intertwined with the other aromas, lending a delicate licorice-like sweetness. It lingers just enough to intrigue without overwhelming the senses.
Appearance
The blend is an elegant mixture of colors and textures. The Red Virginia Ribbon stands out with its deep, chestnut hues, while the Bright Virginia threads weave through in a golden contrast. The Perique appears as dark, slightly sticky strands, hinting at its potent character. The White Burley is cut into fine, pale flecks, offering structure and balance. The Izmir Turkish, scattered throughout in muted tan and ochre tones, adds an exotic touch. Each component is well-prepared, free of excess moisture, and easy to work with—ideal for a consistent pack and an even burn.
The Smoke
Packing and Lighting
The ribbon cut makes for an effortless pack, settling into the bowl with just enough springiness to ensure proper airflow. A gentle tamp after the charring light reveals a steady ember, requiring minimal touch-ups. A second match brings the blend fully to life, and the initial wisps of smoke promise complexity ahead.
Initial Flavor
The first puffs unfold in layers. The Virginias immediately provide a tangy, honeyed sweetness, bright and lively on the tongue. The Perique follows with a soft prickle, delivering a subdued peppery spice rather than an aggressive bite. The Izmir Turkish adds a wisp of smokiness and an herbal undertone, giving the blend an almost ethereal quality, like the lingering scent of spiced tea.
And then, just as the flavors seem settled, the anise whispers onto the palate—a cool, licorice-like sweetness that rounds out the sharper edges. It is delicate, never cloying, weaving itself seamlessly into the overall profile.
Mid-Bowl
As the burn steadies into a smoldering core, the tobaccos begin to meld. The Red Virginia deepens, evolving from bright fruitiness to a richer, bready sweetness. The Bright Virginia still offers a touch of citrus zest, but now plays more of a supporting role. The White Burley asserts itself more prominently, bringing a velvety smoothness and a nutty, slightly cocoa-like undertone that tempers the sharper elements.
The Perique, now fully awakened, delivers a subtle fig-like richness, dark and fermented, with a warming spice that tingles at the edges of the tongue. The Izmir Turkish, in contrast, provides a fleeting smokiness and an almost floral quality.
The anise remains present but restrained, adding an occasional burst of licorice sweetness—just enough to remind you of its presence without demanding center stage.
Finish
The blend burns down beautifully, maintaining complexity to the very end. The Virginias caramelize, turning deeper and richer, offering a warm, slightly toasted sweetness. The White Burley provides a sturdy foundation, keeping the smoke smooth and well-structured. The Perique continues its peppered intrigue, but never overwhelms.
By the final third, the anise is at its most integrated, no longer a distinct note but a subtle, lingering essence that enhances the natural sweetness of the blend. The last few puffs leave behind an impression of warm spices and toasted nuts, fading slowly, like the final moments of a well-aged brandy.
Room Note
The room note is inviting yet distinctive. The sweetness of the Virginias gives a honeyed warmth, while the Izmir Turkish introduces a lightly smoky, almost incense-like aroma. The Perique’s spice is noticeable but not intrusive. The anise contributes a soft, licorice-like touch that lingers subtly in the air—pleasant to those who enjoy aromatic tobaccos, yet restrained enough not to overwhelm.
Strength
This is a medium-bodied blend, offering a moderate nicotine presence that satisfies without overwhelming. The White Burley provides just enough backbone to keep the smoke grounded, while the interplay of Virginias, Perique, and Orientals ensures an engaging yet balanced experience.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
Overall Impression
Hampton House Oriental with Anise is a beautifully orchestrated composition, blending classic Virginia sweetness, Perique spice, Turkish complexity, and Burley’s nutty smoothness with a refined touch of anise. It is both approachable and sophisticated, rewarding slow, contemplative smoking with layers of evolving flavor.
Smoking Experience
This blend shines in a variety of pipes, though it seems particularly well-suited to a narrow-chambered briar, which concentrates the flavors and accentuates the anise without allowing it to dominate. It performs well in different conditions, though a slightly drier preparation enhances its character. Aging potential is promising, with the Virginias likely to develop deeper sweetness over time.
Pairings
- Beverages: Best enjoyed with black tea, spiced chai, or a dram of rye whiskey. Coffee, especially dark roast, brings out the nutty qualities of the Burley.
- Occasions: Ideal for an evening smoke, particularly in cooler weather, where the spice and anise add warmth to the experience.
Similar Blends
- G.L. Pease Cairo – Similar Oriental complexity but lacks the anise element.
- Esoterica Margate – Another balanced Oriental blend, though richer in Latakia.
- Peter Stokkebye Luxury Navy Flake – Comparable Virginia sweetness, but without the Turkish influence.
Recommendations
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
A refined and engaging blend, offering complexity without excess intensity. The anise addition is subtle yet distinctive, making this a unique option in the world of Virginia/Oriental blends.
Who Should Try It
- Fans of Oriental-forward blends looking for a touch of sweetness.
- Smokers who enjoy nuanced, evolving flavors in their tobacco.
- Those who appreciate a well-balanced Virginia/Perique blend with a twist.
Who Should Avoid It
- Anyone averse to licorice or anise flavors, however subtle.
- Smokers who prefer heavy Latakia or straight, unflavored tobaccos.
- Those looking for a high-nicotine powerhouse—this leans more toward medium strength.
Final Verdict
Hampton House Oriental with Anise is a thoughtful, well-crafted blend that delivers a unique smoking experience. It balances sweetness, spice, and exotic depth with remarkable finesse, making it an excellent choice for those seeking something both familiar and slightly adventurous. While the anise is subtle, it adds a distinct character that sets this blend apart from others in its category.
