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Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Essential Information
Tobacco Specifications
- Tobacco Name: HH Old Dark Fired
- Manufacturer: Mac Baren
- Blend Type: Burley/Virginia
- Cut: Flake (also available as Ready Rubbed)
The Experience
First Impressions
Tin Note
Upon cracking open the tin, you’re met with a dark, rich aroma that feels earthy and smoky with hints of leather. Stewed fruit sweetness wafts from the Virginias, followed by a deep, chocolatey essence from the dark-fired Burleys. There’s an almost campfire-like smokiness, balanced with a tannic edge akin to aged whiskey barrels.
Appearance
The flakes are immaculately cut—thin, dark, and neatly stacked, their hues ranging from deep brown to almost black. The surface glistens slightly, hinting at the rich oils within. These flakes are moist but manageable, though letting them sit for about 15 minutes brings them closer to an optimal smoking texture.
The Smoke
Packing and Lighting
Packing the tobacco is straightforward, whether you opt to fold and stuff the flakes or rub them out for a finer consistency. The moisture content, while slightly on the higher side, doesn’t hinder lighting after a bit of drying. A single match might not suffice to get it going, but persistence rewards you with a steady, even burn.
Initial Flavor
The first few puffs deliver a velvety richness, like biting into a well-aged dark chocolate bar infused with a subtle smokiness. The dark-fired Burleys assert themselves with a robust, earthy presence, accompanied by a gentle spiciness. There’s a cigar-like undertone that feels smooth rather than overpowering.
Mid-Bowl
The middle third of the bowl brings out the complexity of the blend. Smoky and earthy tones persist but are joined by a layered sweetness, courtesy of the flue-cured Virginias. Notes of roasted nuts, leather, and a faint whisper of citrus-like brightness emerge. The flavor intensifies without becoming harsh, providing a symphony of bold yet balanced sensations.
Finish
As you near the bottom of the bowl, the blend deepens further. The sweetness recedes slightly, leaving behind rich, smoky, and earthy flavors that take center stage. There’s an almost creamy quality to the smoke, with the Burley’s strength shining through. Some might detect a faint grassy undertone from the Virginias, adding a final layer of complexity.
Room Note
The room note of HH Old Dark Fired is quintessentially “pipey,” with a smoky, slightly sweet aroma that isn’t overly intrusive. While not a crowd-pleaser for non-smokers, it’s tolerable and might even draw curiosity from fellow enthusiasts.
Strength
This blend leans towards the stronger side in both flavor and nicotine content. While seasoned smokers will appreciate its boldness, it demands respect and might be overwhelming for beginners. Sip slowly to avoid any potential nicotine rush.
Similar Blends
Several pipe tobacco blends are often compared to or considered similar to Mac Baren’s HH Old Dark Fired:
- Peterson Irish Flake: This blend is frequently mentioned as a close comparison, though HH Old Dark Fired is often described as slightly more refined and balanced.
- GL Pease Jackknife Plug: Another dark-fired Kentucky blend that offers a similar bold, rich smoking experience.
- Rattray’s Stirling Flake: A pure dark-fired blend that provides a comparable robust flavor profile.
- Mac Baren HH Bold Kentucky: A sister blend to Old Dark Fired, offering a similar dark-fired character but with its own unique nuances.
- GL Pease Cumberland: Another blend featuring dark-fired Kentucky that provides a full-bodied smoke.
- C&D Speakeasy: While not identical, this blend is noted for its prominent use of dark-fired Kentucky.
- Gawith Hoggarth & Co. Dark Flakes and Dark Plug: These are mentioned for those seeking an even stronger dark-fired experience.
- Mac Baren HH Burley Flake: While not identical, it shares some similarities due to its Virginia, Burley, and Dark Fired components.
Each of these blends showcases dark-fired Kentucky tobacco prominently and offers strong, full-bodied smoking experiences with unique nuances.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
Overall Impression
Mac Baren HH Old Dark Fired is an achievement in blending artistry. The interplay between the dark-fired Burleys and flue-cured Virginias is masterful, offering a smoking experience that is as complex as it is satisfying. The bold, full-bodied character of the tobacco is balanced by just enough sweetness to keep it approachable for those seeking a strong yet nuanced blend.
Smoking Experience
This blend shines when smoked in a medium-to-large bowl, allowing the flavors to develop fully. The slow burn ensures a long, contemplative smoke, ideal for quiet evenings or moments of reflection. It performs consistently across different pipe types, but a briar pipe with a wide chamber seems to bring out its best qualities.
Pairings
- Beverages: Pairs beautifully with a peaty single malt Scotch, a robust red wine, or a rich, black coffee.
- Environment: Perfect for crisp evenings outdoors or a quiet study session by the fireplace.
Recommendations
Rating
5 out of 5 stars
HH Old Dark Fired is an essential blend for connoisseurs of robust, natural tobaccos. Its bold flavors, complexity, and excellent smoking characteristics make it a standout in any collection.
Who Should Try It
- Experienced smokers seeking a full-bodied, flavorful blend
- Fans of dark-fired Burleys or cigar-like pipe tobaccos
- Those who enjoy slow-burning, contemplative smokes
Who Should Avoid It
- Newcomers unaccustomed to strong blends
- Smokers preferring lighter, aromatic tobaccos
- Those sensitive to higher nicotine levels
Additional Notes
Aging potential is significant with this blend. Cellaring for a year or more will likely deepen the sweetness and smooth out the edges, enhancing its already exceptional profile. Mac Baren HH Old Dark Fired is more than a tobacco—it’s a testament to the craft of blending, a timeless choice for the discerning smoker.
