Bailey’s Front Porch by Cornell & Diehl

For a change, I’m going to do a “live review.” Usually, I try to get to know a blend a while before putting my thoughts together - this one I’m going to write as I smoke it for the first time.

The flame seemed to jump into this tobacco and nearly light itself. The various tobaccos are cut in such a way packing was a matter of gravity filling and a light tap. Initial tastes were rich, smooth, round, seemingly sweet, and almost creamy. This appears to have about as much chance of biting as a Hershey bar. The gentlest pulls produce generous volumes of smoke accompanied by a wonderful balanced flavor.

I talked to Craig Tarlor when I ordered the sampler this came from. I asked for American style English blends - a blend that would be easy to smoke all day, rich and sweet - this tobacco fits the bill perfectly.

About halfway through the bowl, all the components are holding their own and continue to provide balance. In other similar blends from other brands I’ve noticed that I enjoy the special way Burlies, Latakia, Virginia, and Perique all work together. The Burley brings in a special dynamic not found in blends containing only the other three components.

Towards the bottom of the bowl, the flavor grows more robust, yet still refuses to bite or tire the pallet and ends with a tiny pinch of dottle at a dry heel. The Vitamin N and rich taste has left me satisfied, yet prepared to light up another without reservation.