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Balkan Brawl Pipe Tobacco Samplers
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  • Balkan Brawl Pipe Tobacco Samplers
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Balkan Brawl

Going head to head in this Battle of the Blends is the Balkan Brawl. The battle features Captain Earl's Stimulus Package and Hearth & Home Fusilier's Ration. Each great kakes battling it out for your a space in your pipe. 

Blend
PackIn StockMSRPPriceQtyCart
Hearth & Home Marquee Fusilier's Ration SaleShipping Constraints
1.75 Ounce TinIn Stock$16.32
save $4.3327% off
$11.99
Captain Earle's Stimulus Package Shipping Constraints
2 Ounce TinIn Stock$15.25
save $2.2615% off
$12.99
Pipe Tobacco SamplerIn Stock$24.99
Shipping Constraints:
  • These items cannot be shipped to a Washington or Maine state address.
  • These items cannot be shipped to Massachusetts state addresses.
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Overall Rating4.63 out of 5 Based on 110 Ratings

Customer Reviews of “Balkan Brawl”

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5 out of 5
5 Star
80
4 out of 5
4 Star
23
3 out of 5
3 Star
5
2 out of 5
2 Star
0
1 out of 5
1 Star
2
Showing 1-50 of 110 Reviews
5 out of 5
One of my favorites for
One of my favorites for sure. Like the natural spicy feel.
5 out of 5
A worthy experience.
A very exquisite blend. Captain Earle blends are some of the best Latakia blends I have indulged in. The complex fragrance and taste result in satisfying experience each time. It is with ease to give a pipe one’s full attention while feasting on such a majestic offering. Stimulus Package is Latakia forward with the the right spice and incense like oriental flavor with a very subtle sweetness. The warm velvet like mouth feel exits with a bellowing cloud of wonder.
5 out of 5
Exceeded my expectations
After multiple shipments of tobacco, I finally set aside time for this one this evening. Fusilier's Ration will not disappoint people who desire latakia but don't want a total bomb (such as Quiet Nights or Nightcap). I smoke out of Petersons almost exclusively these days as they are not too cost prohibitive, and tonight was a 315xl (Pipesandcigars take note, you REALLY should be selling this Peterson). As this is a system pipe, it does tend to smoke cool and dry. Enough of the pipe commentary, you want the tobacco talk. This crumble cake was right at the proper moisture out of the tin. The tin note was of mild English blend standards, but unique. Smokey but smooth. The cake broke apart nicely and packed evenly with no drying. It has stayed lit with fewer relights than I'd expected, which is a very nice thing. I think perhaps because it is hearth and home, which in my experience lean more to the dry side. The latakia is definitely there, but that extra additional cavendish smoothed out what roughness might have been present. Not overwhelmingly smokey tasting, the oriental leaves definitely add a bit of exotic spice and room note. The topping, while ineffable, is delightful. Has burned cool and dry with no bite. I say pace yourself as with any blend. Patience is rewarded. Now how does it stack against the Special Reserve rendition? The Fusiliers Ration special reserve i received wasn't a crumble cake, it was closer to shag cut. This is less dry than the special reserve was. The Special Reserve was definitely more sweet but that is not a negative mark against the original blend, just a difference. I give it 5 stars. If you're new to English blends or latakias, I feel it would be a great bridging blend from aromatics or vapers to englishes. It is full bodied yet mild. Smooth and pleasurable on a cool autumn evening such as this.
4 out of 5
I'm not an expert by
I'm not an expert by any means but I do like the tin note the sweet smoky flavor room note is present
4 out of 5
The tin note is bold
The tin note is bold and rich. It’s nicely and stays lit without tongue bite if handled properly. The flavors are rich and fragrant with the Latakia coming in near the end without dominating. It’s a unique blend of English style mixtures with a sweet but not cloying perfume topping from the oriental blend. The retrohale is wonderful and clean. Overall a very fine blend. The room note is strong and probably not for non-pipe smokers but it reminds me of books, good scotch and contemplation.
5 out of 5
Great tasting.
Great tasting.
5 out of 5
Everything you could ask for
Super-duper. I’m a fan of English, and loved Frog Morton’s, Pelican, etc. This one has the top-end spice from the orientals and Latakia without being overpowering. The addition of the cavendish with flavors that are thick, mellow, and lightly sweet. This is a brilliant blend that ticks all the boxes for me. It’ll be a staple in my rotation from now on.
4 out of 5
Exotic, nutty, sweet with an
Exotic, nutty, sweet with an earthy overtone. It’s cake format, but once prepared it burns very nicely. The room note is probably the only thing to complain about - says my wife - personally I had no issue with it.
4 out of 5
Very tasty
One of my favorites
5 out of 5
Great flavor nice and smooth.
Great flavor nice and smooth.
5 out of 5
Requested as a gift for
Requested as a gift for a friend - He was very pleased with it. My order arrived as promised and was correct - thanks
5 out of 5
Bengal Slices with a little less tang
Finally cracked a tin of this and gave it a shot. It is very similar to Bengal Slices (right down to the light anise casing) but a little less tangy. I might prefer this to Bengal Slices as a Summer smoke.
5 out of 5
Fully satisfied
A totally satisfying smoke!. Rich and smokey, but it never got harsh or bitter. There are no sharp edges in the taste - it's always smooth and deep. Fairly copius amounts of smoke, and it burned super-cool. Was able to smoke it at a steady pace, didn't need to be sipped, seemed to liven up in richness with a stronger draw and steady cadence. It never came close to biting. I just sat on the back porch before bed with my dog, puffing and marveling at the total enjoyment I was getting from it, barely moving, just loving each moment. It's Latakia forward, I've seen it referred to as a Lat bomb, but it's so much more than that. The taste would change from time to time as the bowl worked down through the Virginias and Orientals, not major shifts, just an 'oh, cool, that's a bit different' moment in a way that kept drawing me into the smoke more and more. Like I said, a totally satisfying and rich-feeling smoke, a completely pleasant experience, no bad behaviors, no rough edges, always smooth.
5 out of 5
love it!
One of favorites blends, i like it a little better than the bengal slices. They are both good.
5 out of 5
Very nice for English blend
Very nice for English blend fans. Still miss CAO Old Ironsides though.
3 out of 5
Loved it..just wish the blend
Loved it..just wish the blend had more oriental tobbacco.nice smooth.full body smoke
3 out of 5
I trying flake tobacco for
I trying flake tobacco for the 1st time and not enjoying the tobacco as it's hard to keep lit. I prefer flake tobaccos.
5 out of 5
Top Notch!
If you're into the smokey, campfire goodness that is Latakia, you will like this one. Out of all the Captain Earles blends I've tried, stimulus package is easily my favorite. Lots of bold flavor, and very smooth. It smokes cool and dry and leaves nothing but a fine white ash in the bottom of my bowl. The Latakia is very pronounced, but the orientals and Virginia's are still very present. This is good stuff and has made it to the top of my "gotta have it in the cellar" list.
5 out of 5
difficult to light but once
difficult to light but once lit it stays lit and taste great.
5 out of 5
This is my all time
This is my all time favorite blend. Has a thick rich smoke toot and a moderate to strong taste. Will be buying much more of this
5 out of 5
Great smoke!
Great smoke!
5 out of 5
Probably one of the best
Probably one of the best tinned tobacco's I've had to date.
5 out of 5
Historical tobacco
A banger smoke. I feel like an old soldier, (Fusellier), I am, with every pipe. Crumbles easy, burns well and a smoke full of flavour every time. Splendid room note, nose and taste. This version stands alone at he top. A most enjoyable mixture.
5 out of 5
Fusilier's Ration
This is probably the best English blend I have tried! Very smooth, bite free, great flavor and room note and is a lower cost version of Bengal Slices! Great job by Russ Oullette! Highly recommend!🙂
5 out of 5
Somewhat new to English blends, I'll definitely order this in the future
When I first opened the tin I described the smell to a friend as being "Like a campfire projectile vomited into a leather bag full of fresh cash.." The closed tin has been in a small tupperware container for the few weeks it's been open as I've ripped off enough at a time but the smell has leveled out, you could say. Not so pungent but still has what could maybe be described as a slightly tart smell that is also present in the flavor behind the smokiness and leathery notes. The plug is fairly moist and requires drying to be able to get through the last third of the bowl without a fight, and it tears apart and breaks up easily. This is the stuff that will make you go out and buy a cob or basket pipe so you don't have to worry about whether or not it's a myth a pipe should be used only once per day. As soon as a bowl fizzles to an end the flavor lingering on my tongue and breath calls for another, there's something unique about it I can't place my finger on. I was reluctant to leave a review having limited experiences with English blends but have enough experience with cigars to know when something new will become something kept.
4 out of 5
Finally one to pair with whisky
First, I'm not typically a fan of flake tobacco. But I find one application in particularly that this tobacco suits very well. I usually prefer a cigar with my scotch. I've tried various pipe tobaccos and call me crazy, but the English blends and Balkan blends that I favor often present a slight (but repelling) banana note when paired with whisky. Yes, a banana note! I don't care...try it yourself and maybe you'll see. Anyway, I digress. Where was I? O, the fusiliers ration. It pairs incredibly well with scotch. Moreover, I am of the Islay make persuasion, so I'm referring in particular to Laphroaig. Heavy peat smoke, briney seaspray, yes.... Goes remarkably well with the round, dark, fragrant plumes of this earthy tobacco.
5 out of 5
Bold, yet smooth.
I was shockingly and happily surprised by the bold flavor. It is a pure pleasure that is excellent in its smooth, yet intense robust flavor.
4 out of 5
Flavorful , subtle ,
This is very refined and a favorite among Jay's original offerings.
5 out of 5
Very much enjoyed the Fusiliers
Very much enjoyed the Fusiliers Ration. One ounce was backordered and hope to see it soon. Don't want to run out.
4 out of 5
My new favorite. Easy to
My new favorite. Easy to prepare, burns even and completely.
3 out of 5
Eh... Not Really My Preferred Type of Tobacco
Obviously a good quality tobacco and one that I like well enough. However, it wouldn't be my go to choice. I have two tins that I'll complete over time, but I probably won't pursue it further,
1 out of 5
I realize that many people
I realize that many people very much like and appreciate this blend; but I found it too strong in flavor and did not appreciate the taste very much. I will not be buying it again.
5 out of 5
Mighty tasty balkan flake.
Smoky, nutty, fruity, sweetness all in balance. Quite rich. Rubs out easily and burns cool. Better than Bengal Slices IMO.
4 out of 5
Cheaper version of Bengal Slices
Very similar to Russ's Bengal Slices, this blend is less expensive and every bit as good.
5 out of 5
I really tasty Latakia forward
I really tasty Latakia forward English mix highly recommended.
5 out of 5
Nice peppery Latakia forward mix.
Nice peppery Latakia forward mix.
5 out of 5
An excellent blend.
A nice, well balanced blend. Not the fullest I’ve had, but definitely up there. Not looking at how well it mimics the original, but rather how good it is just as a tobacco. As to that, I really like it, and plan to purchase more.
4 out of 5
Old car garage
I enjoyed it tons, rubber leather oil kinda combination
4 out of 5
Better than Bengal
I've never had the original Bengal Slices but I have had the recreation and think this homage is better. It has a deep rich taste and the topping nicely compliments the underlying tobaccos without ever washing them out. A wonderful blend.
5 out of 5
A Welcome Back Treat
I just got back into pipe smoking while we're all on mandatory time off for covid. I got this as part of the Three Wise Men, and oh my, was it the winner. Lovely cool smoke in my churchwarden, very little condensation, and a flavor to die for. Well done on this blend, I'll be stocking up on the bulk version in my next order and checking out some others from the HH series soon.
5 out of 5
Fusiliers Ration
I smoke more aromatic pipe tobacco than non, but several times a week, I like to sort of cleanse my palette with Fusiliers Ration. The deep Smokey taste is just what I want. Great tobacco Russ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 out of 5
Fragrant and creamy
Latakia forward with fine Orientals playing together. Virginia for body and sweetness . Fragrant and rich and creamy. Has a bourbon tasting topping lightly applied . Good smoke . Break it apart gently or it will turn to dust .
4 out of 5
A Very Good English Blend
Fusiller's Blend from Hearth and Home is a very good English blend. I would classify it as medium strength. It has a good taste and delightful aroma. My personal preference for stronger English blends is the only reason I gave this four instead of five stars. If you like less strong blends, this tobacco is a no-brainer.
4 out of 5
An awesome crumble cake English.
This is a great tobacco. The tin note is smokey and inviting. All of the tobacco's play well in the bowl and it never become monotoned. I never tried Bengal Slices but if it's like this, then it has to be good too.
5 out of 5
Quality Tobacco with Great Taste
Great presentation and nose out of the tin in the form of a krumble cake with bursts of smoke, wood, and sweetness. Smokes cool and leaves a wonderful aftertaste. Latakia is the star, but the supporting cast plays their parts well. Definitely a blend I would like to have on-hand at all times.
5 out of 5
Great Choice
Crumbles nice. Excellent burn. Taste is inviting. The more matured crowd tells me the smell reminds them of old blends.
4 out of 5
Nice old school English
A nice smooth, mellow English. The Latakia isn't strong and it doesn't have the same punch as something like Plus Pudding, but still very good.
5 out of 5
Yes
Tin note of smoked brisket! I Love the cut and the cool clean burn of this tobacco. A must try for those who fancy themselves a budding pipe smoker.
5 out of 5
A keeper
Clean flavor, excellent flake
4 out of 5
Musky and fine..
This is one I've been asked to smoke outside, which I don't mind at all because the blend is worth the hassle. Smells like musky old man hiding in a dusty used book store but it burns beautifully. It crumbles easily and stuffs nicely. Not a total latakia bomb, but it's there and cool burning. There's a little sweet Virginia in there that evens the thing out nicely. Wish I could try the retro stuff I see the old timers compare this one to.
5 out of 5
An excellent joice. Wish you
An excellent joice. Wish you sold it in bulk
5 out of 5
Fusiliers Ration
Nice smoke. Awesome flavor. Very aromatic.
5 out of 5
Damn fine smoke in it's
Damn fine smoke in it's own right!
5 out of 5
I have had my Ration and I like it!
Smokey, slightly sweet, and a very, very clean finish. I ordered a tin and I am very impressed. Now, I am not a heavy latakia fan, but this stuff is great for someone that likes a mild dose of the stuff. I ordered lots more to cellar. Great job Russ. It is a shame it took me so long to try it out.
4 out of 5
GREAT SMOKE
good for a evening or after a good meal.full flavor rich and smoky earthy flavor.will be adding more to my celler.
4 out of 5
Smokey and Satisfying
Very pleasant smoke. Has a nice spice to it, a bit of incense, and a subtle sweetness to back it up. Smooth smoking and interesting to smell, the cake itself is also fragrant and was ready to smoke for me straight out of the tin. Finishes easily enough and requires minimal relights. Would recommend.
5 out of 5
Could become one of my new favorites
I bought this last month as well as few other tins, this one this far has been the best of the bunch. no bite smooth smoke. like the crumble cake for front porch rocking chair
5 out of 5
Another winner.
Russ really nailed it on this one. This is one of the best smokes I've ever had. Mouth watering dessert like flavor. I'm always getting remarks on how great the room note is.
5 out of 5
slow smoked brisket
Fine tobacco this one. Immediately upon opening up this tin I got a wonderful nose full of what I can only compare to smoked brisket! Smoke is smooth, burns cool and consistently. I is one that will likely make my cellar one day.
5 out of 5
Top 5 blends for me
This is a good smoke from start to finish. Easy to light and stays lit throughout. Again, in my top 5 favorite tobaccos
4 out of 5
Satisfying
With all the Frog Morton gone. This is does it for me. Not the same of course but satisfying! Al day smoke no problem.
4 out of 5
Very Good Latakia Blend
Has some aromatic qualities to it. Smokey and with some sweetness, but not sickly sweet or over topped.
5 out of 5
Excellent
Excellent some of the best Latakia blends I have ever had. Just ordered two more tins. Need an 8onz tin...
4 out of 5
Tin note of smoked brisket, mmmm...
When I opened the tin all I could think of when I smelled this was BBQ smoked brisket! Although it doesn't taste quite as fatty and delicious, this tobacco is very tasty, cool smoking and ends with the fine white ash known in fine tobaccos. I like the cake style. Cool looking and it is easy to prepare. Pretty classy smoke. It's a must try on many peoples list and I will agree. I can also imagine this cellering well. Happy puffing!
5 out of 5
Deliciousness!!
This blend is very similar to Bengal Slices for obvious reasons. I believe Fusilier’s Ration burns a bit better. Wonderful room note and tastes great if you like Latakia. Highly recommend.
5 out of 5
Excellent
Excellent. Some of the best I have had. Will purchase again.
5 out of 5
This is a damn fine smoke!
I returned to pipe smoking recently, after being away from it for 40+ years. I ordered a pipe, several "drug store" tobaccos and a tin of Fusilier's Ration. Wow! This blend is terrific! Substantial, robust, satisfying. It didn't smoke hot and there wasn't an issue with bite. I had forgotten how much enjoyment and relaxation could be had from pipe smoking. I'm glad I'm now back in the fold and grateful for P&C. What a resource! A vast selection of pipes & blends, as well as dedicated customers whose input/reviews has been quite helpful to someone like me.
5 out of 5
WOW, what a treat!
Guys and gals, you have to try this one. This was my first crumble cake tobacco. I'm only two bowls in (maybe three? Less than five) and already this is going to be one I stack away a few tins of. The sweetness of the cavendish and virginias set a perfect stage for the fevered dance of smoky latakia and orientals, redolent of deep incense. And on top of it all is....something. Sort of a licorice taste, which dresses out the latakia and orientals very nicely. I think a reviewer below is on the right track to let this one sit out for a bit after rubbing for moisture control, as I did get a gurgle toward the end. But a bit of drying and it will be perfect. This is going right next to Black House, PS Luxury English, and Star of The East as a favorite to keep plenty of. Now, about that reserve edition....
5 out of 5
Fuselier's Ration would have been a Fuselier's Dream
Enjoyable all day smoke with no bite and a slow burn. Maybe the subtle topping gives it that extra touch. Great for Latakia lovers like me, but also other sweet aromas in the room note arise probably from the Orientals in the mixture. Used to enjoy Balkan Sobranie, and also the heavy 759 version, long gone. May be a bit overwhelming for some who are not attuned to English mixtures, but if you enjoy English, you should try this one, especially as it is available in bulk and very affordable.
5 out of 5
Pretty good
This is the second of the Captain Earle's series I've tried, the first being Ten Russians. As with most blends, it seems to get better with ample drying time. Once I'd managed to dial in the humidity, it began to unfold and reveal itself. Very nice smoke with good body and a creamy taste. The Latakia was noticeable but did not hijack the flavor. The Virginias were able to impart a slight sweetness and balanced well with the other tobaccos. It was a hearty blend with a full body but not too harsh. I was sad to see the tin empty and enjoyed it quite a bit. It was similar to Ten Russians though I would rate TR just a tad higher in preference. Noticeable nicotine but not too excessive. Recommended. Dry it well and don't rush it.
5 out of 5
I’d buy again.
Gave this a go, liked it, will likely purchase again. FWIW: Check moisture before smoking for best experience. I let my batch dry for a couple hours (not very humid here) resulting in a smooth smoke to the bottom of the bowl.
5 out of 5
Excellent blend
As a lover of Latakia, Fusiliers Ration hits the spot. I can smoke it without any tongue bite and it smells and tastes great. It could be an all day smoke for me.
5 out of 5
love it
top 5 blend
5 out of 5
A delicious classic!
This tobacco has earned its rightful place in the pantheon of delicious blends. There are few others that surpass quality and incense-like aroma. Worth every penny, even at retail price!
5 out of 5
Best Ever
I honestly do not know what to say about this blend except that I've never had anything like it and it is the best I've ever had.
5 out of 5
A must have for fans of scotch whiskey!
A spectacular blend, very cool smoking with a sublime mouth feel and finish. I cannot recommend this strongly enough to anyone who enjoys a few fingers of scotch with their evening smoke. The Latakia adds subtle notes of sandalwood to the peaty goodness. I have found no better tobacco to pair with a fine Islay or Skye single malt. The only problem with FR is the absence of a bulk purchase option. I need a pound of this for my cellar asap!
5 out of 5
Awesome taste
Excellent blend. Enjoyed very much
5 out of 5
MY NEW FAVORITE.
This is my new favorite blend. I have heard it is a copy of Bengal Slices. I have never had Bengal Slices so I can't compare them but the top note on here is just perfectly balanced with the tobacco and makes it nice and smooth and the room note is amazing! I don't love licorice but I love this stuff!
5 out of 5
Good stuff
Good stuff
5 out of 5
Very Tasty and Affordable
I haven't usually liked any Hearth and Home tobaccos I've tried enough to order more, but I really love Fusilier's Ration. It is a creamy and savory tasting English blend (rather than a sweeter tasting blend), which I prefer. The crumble cake form is extra appealing to me as well. I will always keep some of this on hand as I enjoy it quite often.
5 out of 5
I'm Hooked!
Since I have been smoking a pipe for over 65 years I have tried many varieties of tobacco. Still like the good burleys but when Bengal Slices came out I was hooked. And when they disappeared...i was shattered. I was excited when you came out with a new version of Bengal Slices...very good ...BUT...recently I ordered a can of Fusilier's Ration...and am HOOKED...again! My taster doesn't not completely recall Bengal...but even then, I think I might have switched to Fusilier's Ration had it been available in that day.
3 out of 5
First time with a cake tobacco - different.
I bought this along with WhiteKnight and BlackHouse as possible replacements for the Balkan Sobranie I remember from the '70s. They were all good mellow smokes and I enjoyed them very much but they didn't seem to match my memories. I will probably buy them again after trying some of the other Latikia mixes. It was my first time with a cake tobacco and I wasn't quite sure how to use it. That may have affected my results.
5 out of 5
Top Ten Tobacco
This is one of the best tobaccos I've ever enjoyed. The latakia is mixed in so gently that it is present only for its flavor and doesn't take the conductor position. The orientals are present and add the color to the smoke. So nice! The added flavor which is obviously of the anise-licorice sort just rounds it up perfectly without disturbing the components qualities. It's just perfect.
5 out of 5
New favorite tobacco!
Enjoyable smoke! Delivered quickly too.
5 out of 5
Great service
Great service, quick shipment
5 out of 5
First Experience with Crumble Cake
Before I decided to try Fusillier's Ration, I read a lot of reviews. Then I ordered a two-ounce tin...based on what some others were saying about it. I haven't tried the original blend that this one pays homage to, but if its anything like Fusillier's Ration, I think I would enjoy it. I will probably be ordering a couple more tins. This stuff is very good. The aroma from the tin is wonderful. It is easy to prepare and burns very nicely
5 out of 5
A Great Nighttime Smoke
Years ago, my daughter brought some Bengal Slices for me in England, several tins, and I liked it. Then, I couldn't get it anymore. When the "new" Slices came out, I ordered some from P&C but noticed the Fusilier's Ration as comparable. Frankly, I liked it better: burned better, somewhat better flavor, and crumbled easier. Room note is fine. Plus, it cost less. I may just like the name so I can pretend I am a rifleman guarding the artillery as i puff on it. Regardless, FR is a tobacco I will repurchase and enjoy.
5 out of 5
OUTSTANDING
Fusiliers ration is outstanding in every way. I have tried it in a number of pipes i own but it always comes through; savory, complex and thoroughly enjoyable. I like it so much that i purchased as many tins as my tobacco cabinet can hold. Everyone's taste varies but it would be hard to find someone who did not like this blend.
5 out of 5
Hearth&Home's Fusilier'sRation
Being new to pipe smoking I found out quickly that i enjoy latakia blends so i tried Hearth & Home Marquee Fusilier's Ration and would recommend this tobacco to everyone who enjoys latakia as much as i do.
5 out of 5
If i had to choose only one for the rest of it
Of all the tobaccos that i buy and smoke, if i had to choose ONLY ONE FOR THE REST OF IT, this would be the one. For me it has it all from wonderful complex flavors to a nice easy burn. I am saddened that the new government , intrusive , liberty depriving , constitutionally illegal, regulations will cause this tobacco to no longer be available. I am hurt and depressed that big government can simply deprive me of one of the simple pleasures of life. I truly understand better now, what was meant when he said "give me liberty, or give me death"
5 out of 5
Original Bengal Slices was great this is Better!
I smoked a lot of the original Bengal slices through the 70's-80's. I had always added just a touch of unsweetened cavendish for a bit of something different. Fusilier's ration hits it just right, the old Bengal Slices was a great smoke this in my most humble opinion is a bit better, I seldom do this but right after the 1rst bowl ordered several more tins! This is a touch Balkan like in character with an English twist, that added touch of flavoring just runs the bases it hints at the sweetness Bengal lacked, more different nuances throughout the bowl, most excellent Baccy! Lee
5 out of 5
Five stars!
This is a very enjoyable smoke, and I will definitely be getting more in the future.
3 out of 5
A little to bitey for
A little to bitey for my taste
5 out of 5
Very good
Very good
5 out of 5
Reminiscent of Days Past
I too am decideing whether this is my new Favorite. My new alternative to Mississippi River and Frog on the Town. I espeacially love this blend while Revolutionary War Reenacting
5 out of 5
I paid promptly. They shipped
I paid promptly. They shipped correct item promptly. Can't ask for much more than that.
5 out of 5
Can't decide if this is my favorite H&H blend or not! They're all fantastic!
Another fantastic blend from Russ that is a pleasure to smoke! Rich flavor and should be in your pipe right now!
4 out of 5
Please ignore my orignal review
I'm sorry to say that my original scathing review of this fine tobacco was not a result of the quality of Fusiler's Ration. The tobacco did taste horrible; I only finished 1/2 a bowl. But what I didn't know at the time was that the pipe I was using had gone sour. Regrettably, I can't delete my original review. I came back to this blend after I had realized what had happened, and found it to be very smooth and tasting modestly floral.
5 out of 5
Glad I finally Pulled the Trigger
I’d read the great reviews of Fusilier’s Ration but put off buying some for quite some time. Then I was at the CI Super Store with my brother and he asked me to recommend an ‘english’ blend (He’s a 1-Q guy). So I spotted FR on the shelf and recommended he try it. When we got home he popped the tin and we both gave it a try. I was impressed. A creamy English with an underlying sweetness, FR is flavorful and well balanced. There’s a hint of something that reminds me of Seattle Pipe Club’s Plum Pudding, and also something that has echoes of Frog Morton’s Cellar. But these are fleeting. The side stream aroma is delightful, and there is a somewhat floral topping that adds to the depth and complexity of the smoke. FR is not a Lat-Bomb, and it’s not a Nic-Bomb either. The Virginias in it are a great foundation and the cavendish is like a dollop of whipped cream. In a month and a half I’ve ordered it twice!
5 out of 5
Well Balanced and Mild
This is a well balanced, mild English Blend that doesn't loose it's taste yet is not overpowering. Some English blends can be Latakia heavy. This is not one of them. There just seems to be enough to let you know you're smoking "english". This would be a great all day tobacco and perfect for someone new to English blends. I like "rubbing out" my own tobacco so that was an added treat.
5 out of 5
Another good smoke
I love English blends and this is a really mellow but flavourful blend. Crumble cake that was perfect out of the tin. I will be buying this one again.
5 out of 5
Great Stuff!!!
I shoulda read the description a little more carefully as this is a crumble cake. I wouldn't have been exactly sure of what that would have been and probably have interpreted it as a solid cake that you would have to cut with a pen knife. I'm now glad I was so careless. It was easy to pack and it was right up there with Blackhouse and White Knight. I have smoked Penzance and all I can say is that all three beat Penzance in price and the taste is as good or better, keeping in mind that everyone has different tastes. Don't drive yourself crazy trying to purchase an overpriced pipe tobacco that seems to be always out of stock everywhere. These three are much better values.
5 out of 5
Amazing
I love this blend. Full on flavor and smooth as can be. If you rub the chunks out fine it stays lit as well as Dunhill ribbon cut. I love Lancer Slices as well but the slight topping on Fusiliers makes it unique.
5 out of 5
Suits my taste for winter
This is a nice Balkan blend and very much reminds me of Penzance. I will keep it in my rotation.
4 out of 5
Good Stuff
This is a quality tobacco with a great flavor profile. Smooth and mellow smoke that is both earthy and slightly sweet. Overall, I really enjoyed this one and would recommend it to anyone that enjoys Latakia blends that are on the sweeter side. This one reminded me of Frog Morton's Cellar, but not quite as aromatic as the casing isn't as pronounced. My only complaint with this one was the presentation inside the tin, it looked as though someone had just wadded the tobacco up inside of a paper ball and tossed it in the tin. I know that it doesn't affect the tobacco in any way, but the presentation is part of what makes smoking a pipe so fun.
4 out of 5
A Blend to Be Enjoyed by Many
Fusilier's ration is a very nice blend. It strikes a balance between the balkan style blend it was inspired by and the too seldom seen, lightly aromatic latakia blends. The key is balance. The light topping along with the fine tobaccos create a flavorful and enjoyable blend with notes of dark chocolate and red fruits. It's less aromatic and (IMO) cloying than Frog Morton's Cellar but it shares a similar flavor profile. Another blend I might compare it to is SPC's Plum Pudding, but FR's topping is more pronounced. It is a balanced blend that isn't as complex as other full balkans but makes for a fantastic multi-task smoke. Fusilier's Ration rubs out easily and burns well. Of the few Latakia blends with an added topping that I have tried, this is certainly the best and should be an inspiration for other tobaccos of the style.
4 out of 5
Well-Balanced and Satisfying
Not as savory as my vintage Balkan Sobranie or Lane BS-005, but well-balanced and with satisfying depth. There is a faint flinty note throughout as well as an almost imperceptible note of molasses and scorched brown sugar from the curing. For me this is an enjoyable smoke for the right time and place. I can see some enthusiasts giving it an even higher rating.
1 out of 5
A revolting combination of Listerine and Liquid Smoke
Before going into my opinon of this blend, let it be known that I have only been smoking a pipe for the last two months, and that this is my first Latikia blend. Upon opening the tin my first reaction was that this stuff stinks. I don't meen to say that it stinks of smoke, which I actually like in moderation, but rather this blend has a aroma comprised of smoke and medicine-like mint. As one would expect, this unappitizing combination transfers over to the taste while smoking. The best description for the taste is if you were to combine liquid smoke and Listerine. Like I said, I'm new to the pipe smoking eperience so maybe I should have tried a more tamer blend prior to Fusilier's Ration. Maybe if you absolutely love Latikia you'll love this blend too, but for me, I just couldn't finish the bowl due to the fowl flavoring of this blend.
5 out of 5
Great smokes!
I searched long for Fusilier's Rations and have discovered another favorite in White Knight. I will be glad when I can buy each in larger amounts against.
5 out of 5
Fusilier's Ration
I'll start by saying that Fusilier's Ration was love at first light. The flakes are pressed pretty densely but break apart like a crumble cake. It packs well and usually two lights will get it going. The taste is very intriguing; very old timey to me. The licorice is noticeable and tingly but not overbearing. I have not picked up the tonquin yet but I'm working on it. I find that a group 4 or 5 pipe will last over an hour and it is a delightful hour. Fusilier's Ration has moved to the top of my daily rotation. If you're looking for something that is traditionally British then this is the one to try.
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